Author: Chris Harlan

Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday.

Influential WPIAL administrator Charles ‘Ace’ Heberling dies

December 9, 2019

Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday. He was 94.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon (3) knocks the ball away from Woodland Hills’ Eshawn Carter as Aidan McCall assists Friday, Sept. 6, 2019 at the Wolvarena.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon adds 2 offers as NCAA coaches enter contact period

High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.

Gateway’s Patrick Body picks up a first down past Peters Twp.’s Corban Hondru during the WPIAL Class 5A championship game Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Gateway sophomore Patrick Body adds first Division I football offer

Gateway sophomore Patrick Body made two of the Gators’ most important catches in the playoffs and was rewarded this week with his first Division I college offer.

Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis (11) catches a pass for a touchdown during their game against South Fayette on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019.

WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne

December 8, 2019

As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.

Wyoming Area quarterback Dom DeLuca (9) celebrates with Nasir Condry (52) after scoring the winning touchdown against Central Valley in the final minute of the PIAA Class 3A state championship game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship

December 7, 2019

HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.

Southern Columbia’s Cal Haladay returns an interception for a touchdown past Avonworth’s Theodore Newhouse-Godine during the PIAA Class 2A championship game Friday.

Going up? PIAA could force Southern Columbia, others into higher football classification

Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.

Southern Columbia’s Jake Davis intercepts a pass intended for Avonworth’s Theo Newhouse-Godine during the PIAA Class 2A state championship game Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship

December 6, 2019

HERSHEY — Avonworth’s Park Penrod and Trevor Faulkner connected for an electric 43-yard touchdown pass on the opening possession Friday, and for more than 4 minutes, the Antelopes led the state championship.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump (4) celebrates his second touchdown with teammates during the PIAA Class 4A state championship game against Dallas Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Thomas Jefferson dominates Dallas, celebrates 4th PIAA title

December 5, 2019

HERSHEY — Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak had coached 24 seasons, won seven WPIAL titles and celebrated three state championships before this year.

Avonworth’s Jax Miller celebrates his fourth touchdown of the game with Ryan Paszkiewicz during the WPIAL Class AA championship game against Washington Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Avonworth will ‘relish’ underdog role against 9-time PIAA champion Southern Columbia

Avonworth coach Duke Johncour acknowledges the apparent mismatch his football team is walking into Friday when the Antelopes make their first state championship appearance.

Thomas Jefferson’s Dylan Mallozzi carries on a long run against Lampeter-Strasburg during their PIAA Class 4A state semifinal Friday, Nov. 29, 2019, at Hollidaysburg High School.

Thomas Jefferson sees ‘mirror image’ in state championship opponent Dallas

December 4, 2019

Instead of heading home after last week’s semifinal win, Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak and a few assistants drove two hours from Hollidaysburg to Danville to watch Dallas win the other state semifinal.

Mark Jula coaches Ambridge during a game at Quaker Valley on January 16, 2018 in Leetsdale.

Ambridge basketball coach Mark Jula retires week before season opener

December 2, 2019

Ambridge boys basketball coach Mark Jula started to question his passion for the job, so he retired a week before the season opener.

Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto (3) and tight end AJ Beatty react after an interception in overtime ended the Vikings’ PIAA Class 6A state semifinal against St. Joseph’s Prep Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Central Catholic loses in overtime to nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep

November 30, 2019

ALTOONA — Nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep needed overtime Saturday to defeat Central Catholic, 31-24, but the WPIAL champion didn’t leave Mansion Park Stadium satisfied with just coming close.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump dives over the pylon to score on a 2-point conversion against Lampeter-Strasburg during their PIAA Class 4A semifinal Nov. 29 at Hollidaysburg.

Fast start leads Thomas Jefferson to PIAA semifinal victory over Lampeter-Strasburg

November 29, 2019

HOLLIDAYSBURG — After an 11-year wait, Thomas Jefferson is finally headed back to Hershey, but there wasn’t much suspense in the victory that made it happen.

St. Joseph’s Prep’s Kolbe Burrell scores during the first half of a PIAA Class 6A state semifinal against Pine-Richland Saturday, Dec. 1 2018, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep

National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis is congratulated by Gateway fans after defeating McKeesport 14-7 in the WPIAL Class 5A football semifinal Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019 at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Gateway star Derrick Davis ‘game-time decision’ as Gators draw rematch with Archbishop Wood

November 27, 2019

Archbishop Wood had a four-star recruit two years ago when the Philadelphia Catholic League power walloped Gateway in a lopsided state championship game.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump dives over the pylon to score as time expires in the first half of the WPIAL Class 4A championship game against Belle Vernon Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Thomas Jefferson, Belle Vernon lead Big Eight all-conference with 8 players each

Conference champion Thomas Jefferson had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in the Big Eight, and quarterback Shane Stump was named Offensive Player of the Year in a vote of coaches.

Central Valley’s Jawon Hall catches a touchdown pass undefended during the second quarter against Aliquippa Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, at The Pit in Aliquippa.

Central Valley tops Tri-County West with 11 all-conference selections

Beaver Falls running back Josh Hough and Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Schrubb shared Offensive MVP honors in the Tri-County West in a vote of conference coaches.

Brentwood’s Luke Bauer (58) competes against South Allegheny on Aug. 30, at Glassport Stadium.

Burgettstown tops Three Rivers all-conference with 9 on 1st team

Burgettstown completed its second consecutive undefeated regular season and was rewarded by Three Rivers coaches with nine players on the all-conference first team.

Clairton quarterback Brendan Parsons looks to pass during the WPIAL Class A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Clairton’s Brendan Parsons, Jeannette’s Justin Cramer lead Eastern all-conference team

Clairton and Jeannette, the top two teams in the Eastern, had 19 players combined earn first-team all-conference honors in a vote of coaches.

West Greene’s Ben Jackson (34) runs along the sideline against California on Oct. 4, 2019, at West Greene.

West Greene record-setter Ben Jackson leads Tri-County South all-conference

West Greene running back Ben Jackson, who became the first WPIAL rusher to top 3,000 yards in a season, was among the players recognized by coaches in the Class A Tri-County South.

Avonworth’s Jax Miller (4) celebrates his sack with Trevor Faulkner during the WPIAL Class AA championship game against Washington Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Undefeated Avonworth earns 14 spots on all-conference 1st team in Allegheny

Undefeated conference champion Avonworth dominated the all-conference voting this season by claiming 14 of the available 28 first-team spots.

Cornell quarterback Zaier Harrison throws a pass during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, in Coraopolis.

Cornell, Laurel sweep individual awards on Big 7 all-conference team

Cornell earned a share of the Big Seven title and a home playoff game for only the second time in school history, accomplishments that shaped all-conference voting.

West Mifflin’s Ni-Keese Hodges-Demery grabs the ball in front of Belle Vernon’s Nolan Labuda (left) and Ian Maloney on Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, at Belle Vernon.

WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player

November 25, 2019

The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.

Gateway’s Jacques Taylor hoists the WPIAL championship trophy after the Gators defeated Peters Twp. in the Class 5A final Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title

November 23, 2019

Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.

Peters Twp.’s Josh Casilli celebrates as he returns a kickoff for a touchdown past Bethel Park defenders during the second quarter Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses

Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.

Thomas Jefferson defenders upend Cathedral Prep’s Tamar Sample during PIAA 4A quarterfinals Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 at Martorelli Stadium.

Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle

November 22, 2019

The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.

Gateway quarterback Bryson Venanzio looks for an opening during WPIAL Class 5A football semifinal against McKeesport on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019 at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township

WPIAL Class 5A championship

Thomas Jefferson players celebrate with the WPIAL championship trophy after defeating Belle Vernon in the Class 4A final Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?

Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?

Central Catholic’s Matt Altsman celebrates with the student section after beating Pine Richland in the 6-A WPAIL Championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2019 at Heinz Field.

Central Catholic keeps focus on State College with possible St. Joseph’s matchup looming

November 21, 2019

Central Catholic could have a showdown with defending state champion St. Joseph’s Prep on the horizon, an East vs. West clash with the nationally ranked Philadelphia power.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe cruises to a touchdown against Apollo Ridge Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 at Avonworth High School.

Ineligible Avonworth football player drops lawsuit against WPIAL, PIAA

Attorneys for ineligible Avonworth football player Kyros Thorpe withdrew his lawsuit against the WPIAL and PIAA on Thursday, ending his legal battle to play in the WPIAL football championship.

Wyatt Henson returns to Waynesburg after winning Missouri state wrestling title

Missouri state wrestling champion Wyatt Henson has transferred back to Waynesburg, but the junior isn’t eligible for the WPIAL or PIAA postseason tournaments this winter.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe cuts back on the Apollo-Ridge defense on the way to a touchdown Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 at Avonworth High School.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe seeks court injunction to play in WPIAL Class 2A football final

November 20, 2019

Turned away by both the WPIAL and PIAA, Avonworth senior Kyros Thorpe is taking his eligibility battle to court.

Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield shoots over OLSH’s Dante Spadafora during their game Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School.

Basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible for postseason after WPIAL denies waiver

November 18, 2019

WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible to play in the playoffs this winter.

West Mifflin possibly used ineligible football player all season, WPIAL says

The WPIAL wants to hear from West Mifflin’s football coach and school administrators to determine whether the Titans used an ineligible football player all season.

Ligonier Valley head coach Roger Beitel talks to his team following their 34-6 loss to Richland in the PIAA District 6 Class 2A championship game on Friday, Nov. 15, 2019, at Mansion Park Stadium in Altoona.

WPIAL board unanimously approves Ligonier Valley request to join District 7

The WPIAL board voted unanimously Monday to accept Ligonier Valley as a member.

Central Catholic’s Jonathan Opalko watches as his game-winning 40-yard field goal goes through the uprights against Pine-Richland during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Opalko’s late field goal lifts Central Catholic past Pine-Richland in WPIAL Class 6A final

November 16, 2019

This was a kick that might make NFL kickers nervous.

Aliquippa quarterback Vaughn Morris (6) watches as the Central Valley defense brings down Vernon Redd during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at Heinz Field.

Aliquippa quarterback plays in WPIAL championship hours after mother’s death

On the eve of the WPIAL championships, Aliquippa football coach Mike Warfield received a desperate text message from his quarterback.

Pine Richland’s Cole Spencer tries to avoid Central Catholic’s AJ Beatty Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at CMU.

WPIAL Class 6A football finals primer: Central Catholic vs. Pine-Richland

WPIAL Class 6A championship

Gateway’s Tui Faumuina-Brown celebrates with teammates Derrick Davis (8) and Chamor Price (9) after scoring against McKeesport in WPIAL Class 5A football semifinal Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019 at Offutt Field in Greensburg.

Gateway’s defense uses 4th-down stands to edge McKeesport in WPIAL semifinals

McKeesport’s Devari Robinson sprinted forward on fourth-and-4, colliding with Gateway linebacker Jay Johnson, who dragged him to the Offutt Field turf.

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak reacts during a WPIAL Class 4A playoff game against Montour.

5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football: TJ’s Cherpak draws Belichick comparisons

November 15, 2019

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak chuckles at the comparison, but maybe it’s too not farfetched?

Thomas Jefferson’s Nate Werderber celebrates a sack against Blackhawk in a WPIAL Class 4A semifinal Friday, Nov. 8, 2019.

WPIAL Class 4A football finals primer: Thomas Jefferson vs. Belle Vernon

WPIAL Class 4A championship

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald makes a tackle against Pine-Richland on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at Gesling Stadium.

WPIAL championship rematch with fearsome Central Catholic line awaits Pine-Richland

One lineman is the talented nephew of an NFL superstar. One is 6-foot-5 and committed to North Carolina. The two others are gigantic twin brothers with more than 20 scholarship offers.

Devin Whitlock and his Belle Vernon teammates will play in the program’s first WPIAL championship game Friday.

Familiar foes Belle Vernon, Thomas Jefferson to meet for WPIAL Class 4A title

November 13, 2019

Belle Vernon knocked loudly on the WPIAL championship door two years in a row without an answer, each time losing in the semifinals.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Dylan Sebek (3) works against Winchester Thurston’s Alessandro Memoli during the boys WPIAL Class A championship game Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, at Highmark Stadium.

PIAA postpones Tuesday’s state soccer semifinals at Hampton, Slippery Rock

November 12, 2019

Snow-covered fields forced the PIAA to postpone Tuesday’s soccer semifinals at Hampton and Slippery Rock.

New Brighton’s Jake Francona pulls in a pass during the first quarter at Apollo-Ridge on Friday, Nov 1, 2019.

Midwestern: New Brighton’s Francona, Western Beaver’s Altenbaugh lead all-conference team

November 11, 2019

New Brighton receiver Jake Francona and Western Beaver linebacker Zach Altenbaugh earned MVP honors this season in the Midwestern Athletic Conference.

Penn Hills’ Anthony Grimes carries the ball during a game against Mars on Friday, Sept. 13, 2019, at Penn Hills.

Northern: Penn Hills lands 9 players, coach on 1st-team, all-conference list

Penn Hills had nine players voted first-team all-conference by coaches including eight on the defensive side of the football.

Penn-Trafford’s Gabe Dunlap (3) looks at the offensive line prior the ball being snapped during their game against Upper St. Clair at West Mifflin High School on Friday, Nov. 8, 2019.

Big East: 9 from Penn-Trafford voted 1st-team all-conference, Ruane top coach

bPenn-Trafford went undefeated in the regular season and dominated the Big East once again Monday in the all-conference voting.

Peters Twp.’s Aidan McCall carries Moon’s Jeremiah Dean for extra yards during their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at West Allegheny High School.

Allegheny 8: Peters Township leads all-conference voting with 8 on 1st team

Moon went from one conference win to a share of the Allegheny Eight title, a turnaround that earned Ryan Linn conference coach of the year honors.

Mt. Lebanon’s Evan Jones attempts to break the tackle of Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty during the second round Class 6A play offs Friday. Nov8, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

Central Catholic leads 6A all-conference team; Canon-Mac’s Evans top coach

Central Catholic, North Allegheny and Pine-Richland finished tied as tri-champions in WPIAL Class 6A, but the Vikings ran away with the all-conference vote.

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson crosses the finish line to win the WPIAL Class AAA boys championship race Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at Cal U (Pa.).

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team

November 10, 2019

Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

Southmoreland’s Colt Harper dodges a McGuffey defenders to bring the ball down on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 in WPIAL football at Southmoreland High School’s Russ Grim Field.

Washington leads all-conference selections in Class 2A Century

Washington quarterback Zack Swartz, lineman Zakhi Marshall and coach Mike Bosnic won individual awards in the Class 2A Century.

Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem (5) finds some running room against North Allegheny during a WPIAL Class 6A semifinal game Nov. 8, 2019 at Pine-Richland.

Five things we learned in high school football Week 11

November 9, 2019

With another celebration at Heinz Field, Central Catholic or Pine-Richland can call itself the team of the decade in the WPIAL’s largest classification.

Peters Twp.’s Josh Casilli eludes Moon defenders en route to his first touchdown during their WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at West Allegheny High School.

Peters Township wins rematch with Moon in WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal

November 8, 2019

When Peters Township lost to Moon in the regular season, Josh Casilli’s stat line read: one catch, six yards.

Peters Twp.’s Josh Casilli returns a kickoff for a touchdown during the second quarter against Bethel Park Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Allegheny 8 co-champions Moon, Peters Township rematch in WPIAL quarterfinals

The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.

Butler head coach Eric Christy talks with Cooper Baxter (left) and Dylan Fediaczko during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019.

After 2 winless seasons, Butler football might leave WPIAL for independent schedule

November 7, 2019

Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team might leave the WPIAL for an independent schedule next season.

North Allegheny’s Nathan Hoke and Ben Rohan get ahold of Pine Richland’s Cole Spencer on Friday, Oct. 25, 2019 at Pine-Richland High School.

5 things to watch in Week 11 of high school football: North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon looking to flip script

How much can change in 14 days?

South Fayette’s Jimmy Matijevich (14) celebrates his fumble recovery with teammates during the fourth quarter against New Castle Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, at South Fayette High School.

PIAA football realignment: What classification will teams call home in 2020, 2021?

PIAA football teams learned Thursday which classification they’ll call home next season.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson celebrates with teammates after defeating Archbishop Wood in the PIAA Class 5A boys state championship game Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan ‘Puff’ Johnson commits to North Carolina

November 5, 2019

Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson committed Tuesday night to North Carolina, choosing a school where older brother Cameron played.

Moon’s Jamal Littlejohn scores during the second quarter against Upper St. Clair Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, in Moon.

WPIAL announces football playoff sites for Week 11: Class 5A rematch at West A

November 4, 2019

Peters Township and Moon, co-champions in the Allegheny Eight, will play for the second time in six weeks when they meet Friday night in a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal at West Allegheny.

Pine-Richland linemen Miguel Jackson (right) prepares for the 2019 season August 7, 2019.

Pine-Richland lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3rd Division I offer

November 3, 2019

Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson, one of the WPIAL’s top pass rushers, added his third Division I offer this week.

2 WPIAL seniors receive 1st Division I offers from Rhode Island

Two WPIAL football players received their first Division I offers this week from the same FCS school.

New Brighton’s Nyasanu Greene breaks the tackle of Apollo-Ridge’s Dom Reiter and Logan Harmon in the second half at Owens Field on Friday, Nov 1, 2019.

5 things we learned in Week 10: McGuffey, West Greene celebrate 1st WPIAL playoff win in decades

November 2, 2019

McGuffey waited 25 years for Friday night’s celebration. West Greene waited 26. New Brighton waited 18.

Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Dahlem stiff-arms North Hills’ Tyler Tomasic during first round WPIAL 5A playoff action Friday, Nov. 1, 2019 at Martorelli Stadium.

QB Ethan Dahlem exits, but fast start leads Upper St. Clair past North Hills

November 1, 2019

Like a scene from scary movie, Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem’s head and helmet were twisted around in the wrong direction as he crossed the goal line.

Upper St. Clair head coach Mike Junko celebrates with quarterback Ethan Dahlem after he scored on a 78-yard run during the first quarter against Moon Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, in Moon.

Upper St. Clair out to deny North Hills its 1st playoff win since 2010

North Hills and Upper St. Clair haven’t played one another in nearly a decade, but a first-round matchup has stirred some nostalgia.

North Hills’ Dylan Pawling dives for extra yardage against Mars on Oct. 4, 2019 at Martorelli Stadium.

Home-field advantage weighs heavy in WPIAL playoffs

October 31, 2019

North Hills’ Rowdie Rooters, the team’s famed hilltop cheering section, hasn’t celebrated a home playoff game at Martorelli Stadium in almost a decade.

Clairton’s Brendan Parsons (5) tries to break away from Jeannette’s on Friday, Oct. 25, 2019.

2nd WPIAL football playoff game moved to artificial turf

Friday’s forecast predicts drier weather, but Thursday’s rain was enough to force two WPIAL football playoff games to be moved off grass.

Clairton’s Wayne Wade III (right) and Dontae Sanders (left) pursue Aliquippa’s Chinua Solomon on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes Clairton’s Wayne Wade III eligible for football playoffs

Clairton senior Wayne Wade III can participate in the football playoffs, the PIAA decided Thursday, overturning a WPIAL decision on the eve of the postseason.

Cornell’s Savon Wilson works out next to head coach Ed Dawson during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, in Coraopolis.

Weather forecast forces Cornell to move football playoff game to West Allegheny

October 30, 2019

The Cornell football team was hoping to play its first home playoff game since 1983, but a rainy forecast has changed those plans.

Avonworth players celebrate with Jax Miller after scoring against Apollo-Ridge on Friday, Sept. 20, 2019.

Choosing Washington or Avonworth for No. 1 seed among WPIAL’s toughest bracket picks

October 28, 2019

Choosing the No. 1 seeds was maybe easier than usual for the WPIAL football committee with one exception: Class 2A.

Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL football playoffs

Class 6A

5 things we learned in Week 9: Cornell earns 1st home playoff game since 1983

October 26, 2019

Many at Cornell couldn’t remember the football team ever hosting a playoff game, coach Ed Dawson said, but that’s understandable after more than three decades.

Penn Trafford quarterback Gabe Dunlap avoids McKeesport’s KeVonte Simpson to throw Friday Sept. 13, 2019 at Penn Trafford High School.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 9

WPIAL Football

Pine Richland’s Eli Jochem scored three touchdowns against North Allegheny.

Pine-Richland defeats rival North Allegheny, creates 3-way tie for conference title

October 25, 2019

Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer scanned across North Allegheny’s defense, spotted a safety out of position and turned that mistake into a 79-yard touchdown pass.

North Allegheny head coach Art Walker Jr. reacts after an errant whistle stopped play during the second quarter against Mt. Lebanon Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, in McCandless.

North Allegheny, Pine-Richland chasing 1st-round byes along with conference title

North Allegheny coach Art Walker hasn’t studied playoff scenarios or counted tiebreaker points ahead of Friday’s regular-season finale at Pine-Richland.

Central Valley’s Ameer Dudley carries past Thomas Jefferson’s Nathan Werderber during the second quarter of their game Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, in Center.

5 things to watch in Week 9: Aliquippa, Central Valley battle for conference title

October 24, 2019

Only one team has defeated Aliquippa in the past two seasons combined: Central Valley in Week 9 last year.

Karen Arnold named athletic director for Pittsburgh City League

Karen Arnold was named athletic director for Pittsburgh Public Schools on Thursday, making her the first woman to hold that position.

The WPIAL board of directors prepare for a hearing about an incident between the Connellsville and Allderdice boys soccers teams Oct. 21, 2019 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.

WPIAL finds evidence ‘credible,’ but won’t punish Connellsville, Allderdice for slurs

October 22, 2019

The WPIAL found the evidence “credible,” but Connellsville and Allderdice won’t be punished for the racial and anti-gay slurs allegedly exchanged in a boys high school soccer match last month.

Aliquippa’s Chinua Solomon is pursued by Clairton’s Dontae Sanders (left) and Wayne Wade III (right) on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019.

Clairton’s Wayne Wade III among 2 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL

The WPIAL denied an appeal from Clairton transfer Wayne Wade III on Monday, leaving the senior ineligible for the upcoming football playoffs.

The WPIAL board of directors prepare for a hearing about an incident between the Connellsville and Allderdice boys soccers Oct. 21, 2019 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.

WPIAL investigates slurs in 2-hour hearing with Allderdice, Connellsville; decision Tuesday

October 21, 2019

The WPIAL board of directors, investigating allegations of racial and anti-gay slurs, heard more than two hours of testimony Monday night from boys soccer players, coaches and administrators representing Allderdice and Connellsville.

Ligonier Valley’s Wylie Spiker works out during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2019, in Ligonier.

No vote yet, but WPIAL open to admitting Ligonier Valley

The WPIAL administration supports Ligonier Valley switching districts, if the school is released from PIAA District 6.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington and Riverview’s Sydney McDonough fight for a loose ball Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018 at Walter Dlubak Athletic Center.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Robert Morris offer

October 20, 2019

Quaker Valley basketball standout Corinne Washington received a Robert Morris offer Saturday, making her the second WPIAL junior this month to add a Colonials scholarship.

Peters Twp.’s Donovan McMillon blocks a punt by Bethel Park’s Austin Cortopassi during the first quarter Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon announces first Division I football offer

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon made one of his team’s biggest plays Friday night and then added his first Division I offer a day later.

Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio, a senior with Down syndrome, scores a touchdown against Western Beaver on Oct. 18, 2019, at Neshannock.

Five things we learned in Week 8: Special moment for Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio

October 19, 2019

Around the WPIAL, Neshannock senior Jeremy Nativio’s 34-yard touchdown run became a feel-good internet sensation.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 8

WPIAL Football

Special teams shine as Peters Township defeats Bethel Park in 1st-place clash

Peters Township’s longest touchdown drive covered just 37 yards Friday night, rather short for one of the WPIAL’s top offenses.

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli celebrates with Corban Hondru after Hondru’s touchdown against Woodland Hills Friday, Sept. 6, 2019 at the Wolvarena.

Bethel Park, Peters Township to break 1st-place tie in unpredictable Allegheny 8

October 18, 2019

Nobody’s perfect in the Allegheny Eight, but that’s because the conference is the deepest in the WPIAL this season.

McGuffey plans to install two-toned gray turf before the 2020 football season.

McGuffey installing two-toned gray turf at football stadium

October 17, 2019

McGuffey’s football field is going gray.

Quarterback Gabe Lawson tries to elude Central Catholic’s Amaar Allen during an Aug. 30 game. Seneca Valley needs to win one of its last two games to make the playoffs.

5 things to watch in Week 8 of the high school football season

For many teams, there’s still hope.

Upper St. Clair swimmer Josh Matheny committed to Indiana University.

Upper St. Clair swimming star Josh Matheny commits to Indiana

October 16, 2019

The Indiana Hoosiers are probably known best for an iconic basketball program once coached by Bob Knight, but the school also has a swim team that celebrates championships.

Baldwin sophomore lineman Dorien Ford (30) competes during the 2018 season.

2 top WPIAL juniors announce Michigan State football offers

Michigan State has recruited its share of WPIAL football players, a list that recently included Montae Nicholson of Gateway and Demetrious Cox of Jeannette.

Pine Richland’s Tyler King puts a hit on Seneca Valley’s Matt Stanger Friday, Oct. 19, 2018 at Pine Richland High School.

Former Pine-Richland linebacker Tyler King commits to Stony Brook

October 14, 2019

Former Pine-Richland standout Tyler King, the leading tackler for two WPIAL titles and a state championship, announced Sunday his commitment to Stony Brook.

Sto-Rox quarterback Eric Wilson throws a pass during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019 in McKees Rocks.

Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson becomes 9th WPIAL passer with 7,000 career yards

October 13, 2019

Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson topped 7,000 career passing yards on Friday night, becoming only the ninth quarterback in WPIAL history to reach the milestone.

Pine-Richland’s Kenny White eludes Manheim Township’s Brett Benjamin during the second quarter of their PIAA Class 6A state semifinal Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White adds Robert Morris offer

Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny standout Kenny White, now a junior college sophomore, added his third Division I offer this week from Robert Morris.

Woodland Hills’ Peyton Pinkney defends Penn Hills’ Adia Brisker during their game Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at Woodland Hills.

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney adds Robert Morris offer

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney has two hometown basketball offers now that Robert Morris has joined her scholarship list.

Jeannette quarterback James Sanders (12) looks downfield for wide receiver Brett Birch as Greensburg Central Catholic’s Paul Rice (5) defends on Friday, Oct. 11, 2019 in Carbon.
Jeannette quarterback James Sanders and the Jayhawks are ranked No. 1 in the WPIAL Class A.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 7

October 12, 2019

WPIAL Football

Clairton’s Kenlein Ogletree carries the ball as West Greene’s Colton Anderson tries to bring him down during a game Friday, Oct. 11, 2019 at Clairton.

5 takeaways from Week 7: Keystone Oaks QB tops 500 total yards in extraordinary effort

Keystone Oaks coach Greg Perry wasn’t too surprised, but quarterback Logan Shrubb didn’t seem tired when he arrived Saturday morning to lift weights.

WPIAL sets new hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address slur accusations

The WPIAL hearing for Connellsville and Allderdice to address accusations of racial and anti-gay slurs was rescheduled for Oct. 21.

Moon quarterback Dante Clay carries for a first down past Upper St. Clair defenders during the first quarter Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, in Moon.

No ‘doormat’: Moon tied for 1st after defeating Upper St. Clair

October 11, 2019

Doormats? Hardly.

Upper St. Clair’s David Pantellis works out on Monday, Aug. 12, 2019.

Moon faces another top wideout in Allegheny 8 clash with Upper St. Clair

October 10, 2019

For the second week in a row, Moon faces a big-play offense with one of the WPIAL’s top wide receivers.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ben LaCarte (4) faces off with Clairton’s Wayne Wade III (3) after catching a pass on Sept. 6, 2019, at GCC.

5 things to watch in Week 7 of the high school football season

One conference loss is manageable, but two might doom someone’s season in WPIAL Class A.

The WPIAL Class 2A championship on Saturday Nov. 25, 2017 at Robert Morris University.

Scheduling conflict forces WPIAL to move football championship from Robert Morris

October 8, 2019

A scheduling conflict at Robert Morris has forced the WPIAL to move its Class 2A football championship to Norwin.

Southmoreland’s Zach Cernuto drops back to pass against Charleroi during a game Oct. 4, 2019, at Southmoreland.

5 takeaways from Week 6: Southmoreland snaps cold spell

October 5, 2019

Southmoreland coach Dave Keefer saw no reason to hide the team’s 40-year playoff drought from his players.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 6

WPIAL Football

Thomas Jefferson’s Logan Danielson sacks Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley during the second quarter of their game Friday, Oct. 4, 2019, in Center.

Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash

October 4, 2019

Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes and Johnnie Bryant celebrate with the championship trophy after defeating Trinity, 73-72, to win the PIAA Class 3A boys state final Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers

Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.

PIAA might ease co-op rules for small schools struggling to fill rosters

October 3, 2019

With many small districts struggling to fill rosters, the PIAA might make it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump competes against Belle Vernon on Sept. 6, 2019, at Thomas Jefferson.

5 things to watch in Week 6 of the high school football season

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak likes this week’s matchup but not necessarily the timing.

Central Valley coach Mark Lyons works with his team during practice on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019.

Central Valley, Thomas Jefferson rekindle rivalry from their Class AAA days

It wasn’t long ago that Thomas Jefferson and Central Valley were linked in a budding rivalry.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis leaves Mt. Lebanon defenders behind on the way to a fourth-quarter touchdown Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another Top 25 football offer

Derrick Davis’ long list of scholarship offers is starting to resemble the Top 25 polls.

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson runs to the finish line to win the Class AAA boys race during the TSTCA cross country meet Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, at California University.

PIAA cross county champion Patrick Anderson commits to North Carolina

Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson, the defending state cross country champion, committed to North Carolina.

South Park coach Steve Bucci congratulates Brenden Gray (10) after he hit a two-run home run against Quaker Valley during a WPIAL first-round playoff game May 15, 2019 at Seneca Valley.

Baseball coach Steve Bucci leaves South Park for alma mater Baldwin

October 2, 2019

Baseball coach Steve Bucci, who owns both WPIAL and state titles, is leaving South Park for Baldwin, his alma mater.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by PIAA

Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe was among three transfers left ineligible for the postseason after the PIAA upheld earlier WPIAL decisions Wednesday.

Chartiers Valley’s Perri Page scores over Slippery Rock’s Hallie Raabe during their PIAA Class 5A second round state playoff game Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019, at Moon Area High School.

Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page adds Duquesne offer

September 30, 2019

Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page added a Duquesne basketball offer Monday, making her the third returning player from last year’s state championship lineup with Division I options.

Aliquippa’s Darrelle Revis scores the winning touchdown against Northern Lehigh in the 2003 PIAA championship game.

PCN will re-air Darrelle Revis’ 5-touchdown performance in PIAA championship

Sixteen years later, high school football fans still marvel over Darrelle Revis’ performance in the 2003 state championship.

Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto throws against Pine-Richland on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at Carnegie Mellon.

Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto commits to play Division I baseball

September 29, 2019

A day after quarterbacking Central Catholic’s football team to a win over then-No. 1 Pine-Richland, Dom Pieto announced his college commitment.

Gateway’s Lexi Jackson battles Franklin Regional’s Alex Reitz and Noelle Boyd for a loose ball during their game Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, at Franklin Regional High School.

Gateway basketball standout Lexi Jackson commits to Kent State

All-section center Lexi Jackson, who averaged a double-double for Gateway’s girls basketball team, committed Saturday to Kent State.

Moon’s Brenden Luffey reacts as Bethel Park players celebrate their overtime win Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, at Bethel Park.

5 takeaways from Week 5: WPIAL working overtime

September 28, 2019

Not many WPIAL football teams have worked overtime this season, but regulation wasn’t enough for three games Friday night.

North Allegheny’s Luke Colella carries for a first down during the third quarter against Seneca Valley Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, at Nextier Stadium in Jackson.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 5

WPIAL Football

Ringgold’s Clay Rosensteel lines up before kicking the winning field goal Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, against Beaver.

Dramatic win holds special meaning for Ringgold football, Rosensteel family

Ringgold’s student section rushed onto the field as time expired Friday night, overcome with excitement when a last-second field goal by Clayton Rosensteel gave the football team its first win in two years.

Central Catholic’s Eddy Tillman brushes off Pine-Richland would-be tacklers Friday, Sept. 27, 2019 at CMU.

No. 3 Central Catholic leans on talented line, Eddy Tillman to defeat No. 1 Pine-Richland

September 27, 2019

A’meer Allen noticed a troubling trend in recent years.

Pine-Richland’s Luke Meckler scores past Central Catholic’s Gus Sunseri during their game Friday, Sept. 28, 2018, in Pine.

Will Pine-Richland vs. Central Catholic predict WPIAL champion once again?

September 26, 2019

Central Catholic and Pine-Richland have a shared history that few recent rivalries can match.

Pryce Donovan and Derry are part of a more competitive Class AAA Big East Conference

5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football

Central Valley traveled 13 miles to play its first conference road game this season and only nine miles for its second, matchups with Beaver County rivals Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.

WPIAL postpones hearing for Allderdice, Connellsville boys soccer teams

September 23, 2019

A WPIAL hearing scheduled Wednesday for the Allderdice and Connellsville boys soccer teams has been postponed.

Shady Side Academy football coach Chuck DiNardo ended last week with 14 healthy players.

Shady Side Academy will forfeit football game against Apollo-Ridge

Citing a lack of healthy players, Shady Side Academy notified Apollo-Ridge on Monday that it will forfeit this week’s football game.

Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper commits to Robert Morris

September 22, 2019

Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper, a reigning WPIAL wrestling champion, committed Sunday to play football at Robert Morris.

Penn Hills’ Alex Bell (front) and other players react as they greet their fans following their win against Mars on Friday, Sept. 13, 2019, at Penn Hills.

5 takeaways from Week 4: Northern Conference continues to roil

September 21, 2019

Is there a WPIAL conference more volatile than the Northern?

Jeannette’s Kealan Piscar stretches out for a pass in the first quarter against Springdale on Friday. Sept 20, 2019.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 4

WPIAL Football

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon pulls away from the Mt. Lebanon defense en route to a first quarter touchdown Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, in McCandless.

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon

September 20, 2019

Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.

WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs

Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.

Mt. Lebanon’s Evan Jones evades Gateway’s Jay Johnson Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

Mt. Lebanon isn’t ‘well-oiled machine,’ but will battle North Allegheny for 1st place

September 19, 2019

Bob Palko wants to build Mt. Lebanon into the “well-oiled machine” that his West Allegheny program was, but first, all of the parts have to be assembled correctly.

Laurel players celebrate their victory over Bishop Canevin on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019.

5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football

Clairton will try to do something that Mohawk, Rochester, Bishop Canevin and California couldn’t.

Bishop Canevin head coach T.J. Wiley talks to players during football practice Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2019.

Injuries force Bishop Canevin to forfeit football game against OLSH

Citing a lack of healthy players, Bishop Canevin announced that it will forfeit this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.

Franklin Regional head coach Greg Botta participates in the Westmoreland County Coaches Association 7on7 tournament on Thursday July 18, 2019 at Latrobe High School.

WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules

September 17, 2019

The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.

Seton LaSalle football player among 2 ruled eligible after WPIAL hearings

The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Tyler Buzalka eligible for football season following a hearing Monday in Green Tree.

WPIAL calls in Connellsville, Allderdice after more racial slur allegations

September 16, 2019

The WPIAL is calling in Connellsville administrators for the second time in two years to face allegations that the school’s boys soccer team targeted an opponent with racial slurs.

North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson adds Robert Morris offer

September 15, 2019

A couple of weeks after adding a Michigan State basketball offer, North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson received one from a school much closer to home.

Rochester’s Corynne Hauser drives past West Greene’s Madison Lampe during the WPIAL Class A championship game Friday, Mar. 1, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser adds 3rd Division I basketball offer

Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL girls basketball title last winter, received her third Division I offer this week.

North Allegheny’s Alex Papson fends off Woodland Hills’ Mike Caprara during the first quarter of the WPIAL Class AAAA championship game Saturday November 27, 2010 at Heinz Field.

Brian Eyerman, Alex Papson among North Allegheny hall of fame class

Football standouts Brian Eyerman and Alex Papson are among 11 former North Allegheny athletes who’ll be inducted next month into the school’s sports hall of fame.

Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem works out during practice on Monday, Aug. 12, 2019.

5 takeaways from Week 3: Quarterback’s 485 yards among all-time WPIAL best

September 14, 2019

Gaudy statistics by WPIAL quarterbacks aren’t unusual anymore, but occasionally there’s a number that stands out among the rest.

Derry’s Justin Huss eludes Mount Pleasant’s Pete Billey (32) and Ian Fasano during the first quarter Friday, Sept.13, 2019, at Derry Area High School.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 3

WPIAL Football

“Sports isn’t everything, but that’s one thing that helps hold us together (as a community),” says varsity football coach Roy Hall, standing with his team during the National Anthem before a recent game.

Drastic changes in enrollment factor into high school football participation decline

When McKeesport coach Matt Miller was a senior in 1991, the Tigers had around 85 names on the football roster. This year, his team has 47.

Penn Hills’ Noel Roach (6) reacts after making an interception in the fourth quarter against Mars on Friday, Sept. 13, 2019 at Penn Hills.

No. 4 Penn Hills forces 6 turnovers in 14-7 victory over Mars

September 13, 2019

The halftime adjustment for Penn Hills’ defensive line seemed almost counter-intuitive: Try not to rush into the backfield too quickly.

Quarterback Park Penrod is among nine Avonworth players who’ll each honor a military member in the second annual Gold Star Game in New Brighton.

5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football: Sept. 13-14

September 12, 2019

If Avonworth quarterback Park Penrod throws a touchdown or scrambles for a first down, his name won’t echo through the stadium Friday night.

Mars coach Scott Heinauer argues with a referee when Mars hosted Penn Hills, Friday, Sept. 14, 2018.

Spotting ‘fakes’ crucial as Penn Hills prepares for Mars’ misdirection

Mars coach Scott Heinauer took time during film study to praise a run by Nick Spotti that gained exactly zero yards.

Central Catholic lineman Thomas Hartnett commits to Dartmouth

September 11, 2019

The Ivy League added another WPIAL lineman Wednesday when Central Catholic’s Thomas Hartnett committed to Dartmouth.

McKee Stadium in Jeannette on Sept. 7, 2019.

Jeannette, Avella consider rescheduling football game but agree to play Friday night

September 10, 2019

Jeannette and Avella school administrators discussed moving this week’s football game to a different date or time, but ultimately agreed to play the game as scheduled.

Hampton’s Josh Andersson (33) finds an opening against Shaler September 6, 2019 at Hampton.

5 takeaways from Week 2 of high school football action

September 7, 2019

Less than a week after being shot in the leg and feet, West Mifflin quarterback Jaylen Dukes walked back onto a football field with crutches Friday night.

Penn-Trafford’s Noah Allen (14) lunges for the ball while being covered by Connellsville’s Jason McBride during their game Sept. 6, 2019, at Connellsville.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 2

WPIAL football rankings

South Fayette’s Joey Audia dives over the pylon to score past New Castle’s Donny Cade Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, at South Fayette High School.

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle

September 6, 2019

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.

Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty

The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.

South Fayette’s Charley Rossi (1) rushes the ball during their game against Upper St. Clair on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019.

New Castle wants to stop South Fayette’s 3-year undefeated run in Northwest 8

September 5, 2019

The name changed from the Northwest Nine to the Northwest Eight, but whatever the Class 4A conference was called, South Fayette has owned it.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL

Avonworth transfer Kyros Thorpe can complete the regular season but the football standout remains ineligible for the playoffs.

Freedom’s Jayden Sharpless (22) celebrates her first goal with her sister, Myla, during the WPIAL Class A girls soccer championship game against Bentworth Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, at Highmark Stadium.

WPIAL rules North Catholic soccer transfer Jayden Sharpless eligible

A WPIAL hearing panel overturned an earlier decision and ruled North Catholic soccer star Jayden Sharpless eligible Thursday by a narrow vote.

Washington’s stadium press box displays a banner that recognizes past WPIAL and PIAA championships. The Prexies are a win from becoming the fourth WPIAL team to reach 700 all-time victories.

5 things to watch in Week 2 of high school football

In more than a century of WPIAL football, only three schools have reached 700 all-time victories: New Castle, Jeannette and Aliquippa.

Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe seeks postseason eligibility

September 2, 2019

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe has made an immediate impact since transferring from Central Catholic, but it’s unknown whether he’ll be eligible for the football playoffs.

Freedom’s Jayden Sharpless moves the ball upfield during a game against South Side Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at Freedom.

WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for soccer star Jayden Sharpless

North Catholic transfer Jayden Sharpless, the top WPIAL girls soccer player last season, will learn this week whether she can play this fall.

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald - Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald reveals 8 favorite scholarship offers

September 1, 2019

Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald posted a favorites list this week that included all three area colleges and some of the top programs nationally.

North Allegheny freshman adds Michigan State basketball offer

Jasmine Timmerson won’t make her high school basketball debut for a few more months, but the North Allegheny freshman already has a Big 10 scholarship offer.

Gateway running back Derrick Davis avoids Mt. Lebanon’s Sam Rolfsen on the way to a first-quarter touchdown Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another SEC football offer

Gateway’s Derrick Davis might soon be able to choose any college in the country.

Dallas Paolino (middle) participates in drills with other players during Carlynton football practice at the school Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2019.

5 takeaways from Week 1 of high school football action

August 31, 2019

Carlynton accomplished something Friday the program hadn’t done in 14 years.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 1

Class 6A

Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto celebrates after scoring in the final minute of the game against Seneca Valley Friday, Aug. 30, 2019, at Seneca Valley High School.

Central Catholic scores last-minute touchdown, stops Seneca Valley in wild finish

August 30, 2019

Central Catholic scored with 28 seconds left and then its defense made a touchdown-saving tackle as time expired Friday night, a wild finish to a 10-7 victory at Seneca Valley.

Athletic director Randy Rovesti congratulates Gateway’s Justin Stanovich after a college signing ceremony at the high school Friday, May 11, 2018.

Randy Rovesti retires as Gateway athletic director

Randy Rovesti thought he’d be Gateway’s interim athletic director for maybe two or three months, just long enough for the district to find someone else.

Banners of Darrelle Revis and Ty Law are installed on the field house at Carl A. Aschman Stadium Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at Aliquippa High School.

5 things to watch in Week 1 high school football

August 29, 2019

Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield would like to see old Aschman Stadium renovated, but the second-year coach started with the field house that holds the team’s lockers and weight room.

Seneca Valley’s Gabe Lawson reacts after a first-quarter run to setup a touchdown against North Allegheny during 6A WPIAL semifinal action Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at Wright Field at Newman Stadium.

Division I linemen clash as No. 2 Central Catholic visits No. 4 Seneca Valley

Ron Butschle apologized for using what might sound to some like an old coaching cliché.

Gateway receiver Patrick Body pulls in a touchdown pass over Mt. Lebanon’s Brodie Campbell Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at Antimarino Stadium at Gateway High School.

WPIAL football rankings through Week Zero

August 24, 2019

Class 6A

Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer carries during the third quarter against Penn Hills Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, in Pine.

5 takeaways from Week Zero of high school football action

Two hundred yards is a good night for any WPIAL passer, but nowadays that’s not enough for some quarterbacks.

Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer celebrates with Eli Jochem (5) after they connected for a touchdown during the first quarter against Penn Hills Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, in Pine.

Pine-Richland uses fast start to defeat Penn Hills in clash of champions

August 23, 2019

Pine-Richland didn’t ease into this new football season.

Ambridge head coach Don Phllips works with his team during practice Friday, Aug. 16, 2019, in Ambridge.

McGuffey-Ambridge Week Zero football game postponed in 11th hour

Friday night’s football game between Ambridge and McGuffey was postponed because no game officials were hired to work the game, said McGuffey athletic director Ed Dalton.

Freedom’s Jayden Sharpless controls the ball during a game against South Side Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at Freedom.

WPIAL soccer star Jayden Sharpless ruled ineligible after transferring

Jayden Sharpless, one of the WPIAL’s top girls soccer players, was ruled ineligible to play this fall.

Steel Valley’s Eshawn Carter gets past Wilmington Area’s Colton Richards during the 2A PIAA semifinal Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at Ambridge High School.

WPIAL rules 2 transfers eligible for football, delays decision on another

August 22, 2019

The WPIAL ruled Woodland Hills transfer E’Shawn Carter eligible Thursday, clearing the junior to play football and basketball this school year for the Wolverines.

North Allegheny cheerleaders use their megaphones to cheer the student section in a game last season at Newman Stadium at Wright Field.

5 things to watch in high school football for Week Zero

Scrimmage or schedule a game?

Mt. Lebanon head coach Bob Palko talks with his team at the start of practice during the first day of football camp Monday, Aug. 12, 2019, in Mt. Lebanon.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches

The South Hills has some new faces this fall.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher scores during the second quarter against McKinley Tech Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018, at the Wolvarena in Turtle Creek.

Aliquippa returns ‘good nucleus’ from WPIAL, PIAA championship lineup

If they all can accept their invitations, Aliquippa football greats Ty Law, Darrelle Revis, Sean Gilbert and Mike Ditka will return home for a Week 1 ceremony.

Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter among 3 WPIAL hearings scheduled for Thursday

Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter and two incoming freshmen at Aliquippa will have their football eligibility decided Thursday during hearing at the WPIAL office in Green Tree.

Belle Vernon’s Cameron Guess returns for the 2019 season.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers

August 21, 2019

Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.

Penn Hills coach Jon LeDonne is suspended for Friday’s season opener against Penn Hills.

Even without LeDonne in attendance, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland excited for clash of champions

Jon LeDonne won’t take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or listen to some Smokey Robinson on his free Friday night.

Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent (23) rushes the ball during the Blackhawk’s 21-0 loss against South Fayette on Friday, Sept. 28, 2018.

WPIAL position by position breakdown: Scouting the safeties

August 20, 2019

Versatile safeties are crucial in today’s WPIAL.

Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson joining brother Cameron in Arizona

August 19, 2019

Moon basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson is joining older brother Cameron in Arizona.

Peters Twp.’s Aiden McCall breaks up a pass intended for Bethel Park’s Jehvonn Lewis during the second quarter Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, at Peters.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks

There’s no major college recruit on this list like last year when Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, North Allegheny’s Joey Porter Jr. and Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy topped the cornerback rankings.

Coach Rod Steele makes West Mifflin roster battle for jobs in 1st season

A few days of heat acclimation and a week of camp wasn’t enough time for Rod Steele to pick starters.

Gateway’s Tui Brown prepares for the 2019-2020 season August 6, 2019.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers

August 18, 2019

The top linebackers in the WPIAL and City League always include some of the area’s best all-around athletes.

Seneca Valley’s Jake Mineweaser spinnings out of a tackle attempt by Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty then heads for the game winning touchdown during first round 6A WPIAL action Friday, Nov. 2, 2018 at Fox Chapel High School.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive linemen

August 17, 2019

Some years it’s at cornerback. Sometimes it’s the linebackers.

Mars lineman Michael Carmody has numerous offers from Power 5 schools.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive linemen

August 16, 2019

The offensive line is always strong spot for the WPIAL, and it is among the deepest positions again this season.

Bethel Park quarterback Anthony Chiccitt throws a pass during practice on the first day of football camp Monday, Aug. 12, 2019, in Bethel Park.

Bethel Park might be going to no-huddle offense, but toughness remains

There won’t be a fullback in the backfield, the tight end is optional and running backs might play wide receiver, but Bethel Park’s offense isn’t completely new.

Upper St. Clair, Junko start with ‘blank slate’

Upper St. Clair returns only three players who started last season, a seemingly tough spot for a first-year coach.

Tribune-Review
Virginia recruit Josh Rawlings caught four touchdown passes last season for Woodland Hills.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends

August 15, 2019

The traditional hand-on-the-ground tight end has disappeared from some offenses around Western Pennsylvania.

Central Catholic turns the page after frustrating ’18 season

Last season was a difficult one for Central Catholic, hampered at times by turnovers and other self-inflicted mistakes.

Mt. Lebanon lineman Tom Peters works out during the first day of football camp Monday, Aug. 12, 2019, in Mt. Lebanon.

Large, veteran offensive line to pave way for Mt. Lebanon

If there’s a difference between Class 5A and 6A football, maybe it’s the size of the linemen.

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli runs the ball when Peters Township faced off against West Toronto Prep at Wolvarena, Friday, August 24, 2018.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers

August 14, 2019

Western Pennsylvania was known historically for producing hall of fame quarterbacks, a trend that shifted in recent decades to superstar defensive backs.

Pine-Richland head football coach Eric Kasperowicz prepares his team for the 2019-2020 season August 7, 2019.

WPIAL Class 6A football breakdown: Coaches expect competitive year, wide-open field

There was a worry the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs might be boring because every game is a rematch from the regular season.

Mars’ Khori Fusco shots over Shaler’s Brennan Fugh Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 at Shaler Area High School.

Mars’ Khori Fusco headed to prep powerhouse for post-graduate season

Mars basketball standout Khori Fusco, who was a senior last season, announced Tuesday he’s headed to a powerhouse prep school near Shippensburg.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis stiff-arms West Allegheny’s Ian McBain en route to a third quarter touchdown during their WPIAL Class 5A semifinal Friday, Nov. 16, 2018, at West Mifflin.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs

August 13, 2019

High school football has become a pass-oriented game, but that doesn’t mean teams across Western Pennsylvania have abandoned running the football.

Bob Palko brings ‘tough love’ to Mt. Lebanon as football teams open camp

August 12, 2019

Bob Palko compared the first day of football camp to planning a beach vacation, even though the only deep blue in sight Monday was Mt. Lebanon’s helmets and his new Blue Devils shorts.

Mars’ Carmody picked for All-American Bowl, 4th WPIAL player in 4 years

For the fourth year in a row, the WPIAL had a high school football player chosen for the All-American Bowl.

Norwin quarterback Jack Salopek completes a pass in the Westmoreland County Coaches Association tournament on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at Latrobe.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks

WPIAL passing records have fallen one after another over the past five years, a sign high school football in Western Pennsylvania has changed.

WPIAL rules Isiah Warfield eligible for senior season, ineligible for playoffs

August 7, 2019

The WPIAL approved Isiah Warfield to play basketball in the regular season, but the Central Valley transfer remains ineligible for the playoffs.

West Mifflin coach Lance Maha watches his team play Franklin Regional on Friday, Dec. 9, 2016.

Former West Mifflin coach Lance Maha returns to WPIAL basketball

August 6, 2019

Lance Maha, who coached boys basketball at West Mifflin for two decades, is returning to the WPIAL after one season away.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher eyes Sharon’s Jordan Wilson for a tackle during the 3A PIAA semifinal Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 at Milhalik-Thompson .

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher postpones commitment hours before decision day

August 4, 2019

On the eve of commitment day, Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher decided to postpone his decision.

Mars tackle and tight end Michael Carmody prepares for the upcoming 2018 season Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, at Mars.

WPIAL football recruits share their written scholarship offers as August arrives

August 1, 2019

The first day of August is the date each year that college football coaches can send written scholarship offers to high school seniors.

Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa makes a play on a ball hit by Serra’s Dom Puzcanchera Tuesday, June 11, 2019 during PIAA 2-AA baseball semifinals at West Mifflin Area High School.

Like his older brother, Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa commits to Pitt baseball

July 31, 2019

Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa, whose brother stars for Pitt, committed Monday to also play baseball for the Panthers.

Gateway transfer Diego Bledsoe remains ineligible over father’s critical comments

July 30, 2019

The PIAA listened to critical public comments made by Diego Bledsoe’s father and then upheld a WPIAL decision that leaves the Gateway transfer ineligible to play football.

Brian Urso is the new head coach of the Central Catholic boys basketball team. He was an assistant coach for Robert Morris during the 2018-19 season.

PIAA overturns suspension levied against Central Catholic coach Brian Urso

The PIAA overturned a WPIAL decision and lifted the suspension given to Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson- Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes West Mifflin football standout Nahki Johnson eligible

The recruiting allegations made against Nahki Johnson and coach Rod Steele were “unsubstantiated,” the PIAA decided Tuesday, so it ruled the West Mifflin football standout immediately eligible.

Clairton, McGuffey schedule Week 1 football game

July 29, 2019

Left idle by forfeits, McGuffey and Clairton will have Week 1 football games after all.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher - Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher sets commitment date

July 28, 2019

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher hasn’t picked his college but the star linebacker did set a commitment date.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis eludes Franklin Regional’s Justin Johns during the second quarter Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, in Murrysville.

Alabama, rarely seen around WPIAL, offers Gateway junior Derrick Davis

Joe Namath starred there in the 1960s and Robert Foster picked Alabama earlier this decade, but Crimson Tide football offers don’t appear all that often in the WPIAL.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski scores over Freeport’s Harley Holloway Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 at Freeport Middle school.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski commits to Richmond

July 27, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, one of the WPIAL’s top rising seniors, committed Saturday to Richmond.

Northgate’s Davonte Christe (20) rushes the ball during their game against Springdale on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018.

WPIAL will re-evaluate how it schedules football after Northgate forfeits

July 26, 2019

The WPIAL will change the way it schedules nonconference football games after a team strategically forfeited for the second time in two years.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis adds Louisville offer as Gators take team trip

July 25, 2019

The Gateway football team took a road trip this week to Louisville and linebacker Derrick Davis picked up a souvenir to bring home.

Peters Twp.’s Josh Casilli- Trib HSSN preseason Kennywood Top 25 football team

Peters Township wide receiver Josh Casilli commits to Penn

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli committed Thursday to Penn, choosing an Ivy League path that was wildly successful for another WPIAL wide receiver just a few years ago.

The TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Star football team is introduced Tuesday at Kennywood Park.

WPIAL’s best football players take break for TribLive HSSN event

July 23, 2019

High school football teams have worked out together for months in weight rooms and practice fields, but suddenly those offseason sessions have a more serious tone.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds 2 more Division I offers

Quaker Valley has another Washington with Division I basketball talent.

Armstrong head coach Frank Fabian talks to his players at the Alle-Kiski Football Challenge at Kiski Area High School on Thursday, July 28, 2016.

Armstrong coach Frank Fabian ready for season after short-lived resignation

In two weeks, when WPIAL football teams start heat acclimation, Armstrong coach Frank Fabian will be there for his fifth season with the River Hawks.

QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on

July 21, 2019

The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during a HSSN Media Day live broadcast at Kennywood Park.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski scores past Central Valley’ Allyson Kirby during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski adds 2 more Division I offers

July 20, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, now in the heart of AAU basketball season, added two more college offers.

PIAA sets pitch-count limit for junior high baseball

July 19, 2019

The PIAA believes junior high baseball players shouldn’t throw as many pitches as high school hurlers, so a separate pitch count was established this week.

As incoming freshmen, WPIAL basketball’s 2023 class already looks special

Early indications say the WPIAL Class of 2023 will be special.

PIAA denies request to add games to baseball regular season

The high school baseball regular season will continue to have a 20-game limit after the PIAA denied a request to add more contests.

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton competes in a 110 meter hurdles preliminary race next to Brentwood’s John Milcic during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys outdoor track season

July 18, 2019

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton became the most talked about track star in the WPIAL this spring, a situation neither he nor his father could have imagined.

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo scores over Penn-Trafford’s Bella Long during their WPIAL Class 5A first round playoff game Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo commits to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham

July 17, 2019

A year after tearing an ACL, Trinity basketball standout Riley DeRubbo celebrated another milestone Wednesday when she committed to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham.

Penn-Trafford’s Nick Tarabella (18) reacts to a foul against Butler in the second half on Saturday Oct. 21, 2017 at Norwin.

PIAA doesn’t support ‘diagonal’ pilot program for WPIAL soccer officials

WPIAL soccer referees must keep using the “double dual” officiating system, at least for now.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson shoots a three-pointer over Mars’ Brandon Caruso during their PIAA Class 5A semifinal Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

PIAA eligibility hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson postponed

The PIAA hearing scheduled Wednesday for Moon basketball standout Donovan Johnson was postponed.

Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins win the girls AA 1600m during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships at Slippery Rock University.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls outdoor track season

July 16, 2019

Maybe the biggest story of track season came months earlier when the WPIAL decided to move the individual championship meet to Slippery Rock.

Thomas Jefferson quarterback Shane Stump eludes Montour’s Torry Fisher during the fourth quarter of the WPIAL Class 4A championship game Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, at Heinz Field.

Thomas Jefferson QB Shane Stump adds 3rd Division I offer

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, one of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks, announced his third college offer from Dayton.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch drives to the basket against Norwin’s Abby Best during their WPIAL Class 6A girls semifinal Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch adds 4 more basketball offers

Four more names joined the list of Division I basketball teams recruiting North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch.

PIAA schedules eligibility hearing for West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson will learn this month whether he can play football in the fall.

Monessen’s Devin Whitlock celebrates as time expires in a PIAA Class A second round state playoff game against Bishop Carroll Tuesday, Mar. 12, 2019, at Greensburg Salem High School.

WPIAL declares two-sport Belle Vernon transfer Devin Whitlock eligible

July 15, 2019

Belle Vernon sophomore Devin Whitlock, a two-sport standout who transferred from Monessen, is eligible to play football and basketball this upcoming school year.

Woodland Hills’ Keandre Bowles shoots over Gateway’s R.J. Stevenson during their game Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at Woodland Hills.

WPIAL leading scorer Keandre Bowles commits to junior college in Kansas

July 14, 2019

The WPIAL’s leading scorer is headed to the Great Plains.

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen battles Neumann-Goretti’s Kiara Koger for a loose ball during the PIAA Class 3A girls state championship game Monday, March 26, 2018, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen commits to St. Francis (Pa.)

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen, a rising senior, announced her commitment to St. Francis (Pa.) basketball Sunday.

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal scores past Mt. Lebanon’s Nora Kogan during their game Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal adds 4 more basketball offers

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal added several more names to her scholarship list Sunday.

Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm drives to the basket past Slippery Rock’s Hallie Raabe during their PIAA Class 5A second round state playoff game Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019, at Moon Area High School.

Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm adds WVU basketball offer

Chartiers Valley basketball standout Aislin Malcolm, one of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores, received an offer Sunday from West Virginia.

North Allegheny senior lineman Lugg forges his own path

North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg plays left tackle for the Tigers like older brother, Josh, did a few years earlier.

Norwin’s Zach Ullum moves in for a kick pass against Latrobe during WPIAL boys’ soccer Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2018 at Norwin High School.

WPIAL soccer referees will switch to diagonal system, if PIAA approves

The WPIAL could change the way soccer games are officiated next season, if the PIAA approves.

North Allegheny’s Jared Orwell (center) celebrates with Ryan Dougherty (6) and J.T. Montross after driving in a run against Pine-Richland in a PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal Thursday, June 6, 2019, at La Roche University.

PIAA baseball committee wants games added to regular season

July 13, 2019

Pennsylvania high school baseball teams could play a few more regular-season games next season, if the PIAA baseball steering committee gets its wish.

Mars celebrates after Andrew Recchia hit the game winner to beat Moon during the 5A boys WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys basketball season

July 12, 2019

With Moon and Mars leading the way, it’s safe to say the 2018-19 WPIAL boys basketball season was out of this world.

Moon Area’s Donovan Johnson grabs a rebound over Penn Hill’s Tyree Spencer during semifinal WPIAL action Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at North Hills High School.

PIAA schedules appeal hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson

Basketball star Donovan Johnson will learn next week whether he can play his senior season at Moon.

After 2 years without, light towers return to Northgate’s stadium

Northgate football coach Michael Fulmore was headed home after a summer workout when something high in the Bellevue sky grabbed his attention.

While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort

July 11, 2019

North Allegheny’s Luke Colella celebrates his touchdown past Norwin’s Michael Ryan during the second quarter Friday, Aug. 31, 2018, at Norwin High School.

North Allegheny’s Luke Colella gives Ivy League another WPIAL football recruit

July 10, 2019

Once a Tiger, always a Tiger?

Central Catholic baseball’s Will Ray commits to Wake Forest

July 9, 2019

Central Catholic’s Will Ray is the lastest WPIAL baseball recruit heading south.

Burrell’s Olivia Kelly anchors the 4x100 relay team in a girls Class AA preliminary race during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

NFHS expands exchange zones for some track relays

July 8, 2019

Some sprinters will have an extra 10 meters to make their relay exchange, the National Federation of State High School Associations decided.

Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey speaks during the PIAA Playoff Equity Summit July 24, 2018, at the Ramada Hotel & Conference Center in State College.

Woodland Hills AD among candidates to coach boys basketball team

July 7, 2019

Woodland Hills’ next boys basketball coach might already work in the school’s athletic department.

Pittsburgh Central Catholic’s Gavin Thomson runs the ball in for a touchdown against Erie Cathedral Prep’s Jordan Adams at Wolvarena in Turtle Creek, Friday, August 24, 2018.

Week Zero football showcase at Wolvarena expands to 2nd venue

The Western Pennsylvania vs. Everyone Football Showcase is officially too big for one stadium.

Baldwin receiver Naseer Penn competes against Chartiers Valley on Sept. 28, 2018, at Baldwin.

2 WPIAL football recruits announce 1st Division I offers from St. Francis

Two rising seniors in the WPIAL each received their first Division I football offers this week from St. Francis.

Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’

July 6, 2019

Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam (22) competes against Penn-Trafford April 2, 2019 at Pine-Richland.

Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam commits to West Virginia

July 5, 2019

Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL title this spring, committed Friday to West Virginia.

Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy accepts the state championship trophy after the Indians defeated Manheim Central in the PIAA Class 5A final Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 football season

July 1, 2019

Fifteen years had passed since Darrelle Revis last played WPIAL football, but his name came up often last December in Hershey.

North Allegheny’s Ayden Owens competes in the Class AAA boys 110 meter high hurdles preliminary Friday, May 25, 2018, during the PIAA track and field state championships at Shippensburg University.

Former North Allegheny track star Ayden Owens transferring to Michigan

Ayden Owens enjoyed his freshman year on the West Coast, the warm weather and the Los Angeles lifestyle.

Incoming North Allegheny freshman announces Division 1 basketball offer

June 30, 2019

North Allegheny’s Jasmine Timmerson hasn’t started high school but already has a Division 1 basketball offer.

Trinity basketball’s Riley DeRubbo adds St. Francis offer

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo, who missed most of her junior basketball season after knee surgery, has added another Division 1 offer.

Southern Columbia’s Julian Fleming stiff-arms Wilmington’s Danny Hanssen in the PIAA Class AA title game Dec. 7, 2018, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Pennsylvania has nation’s No. 1-ranked small school football team

Defending PIAA champion Southern Columbia was ranked Sunday as the No. 1 small school football team in the country by the website High School Football America.

Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer (4) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their game against Mt. Lebanon at Pine-Richland High School on Nov. 9, 2018.

2 WPIAL schools honored nationally in preseason football rankings

WPIAL football teams Penn Hills and Pine-Richland were recognized by High School Football American in its national preseason rankings.

Alquippa’s MJ Devonshire wins his 100 meter dash preliminary race next to Ligonier Valley’s Elliot Rost during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Aliquippa’s Devonshire named Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year

MJ Devonshire might be too humble to rank himself among the high school greats from Aliquippa, but his accomplishments speak for themselves.

Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy eludes Manheim Central defenders on an 83-yard kickoff return for a touchdown during the PIAA Class 5A state championship game Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Looking back at the top 15 high school sports stories of the 2018-19 school year

June 29, 2019

8.6.18

Mars’ Bella Pelaia scores past Franklin Regional’s Jordan Yaniga during their game Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, at Franklin Regional High School.

Mars basketball’s Bella Pelaia commits to Mount St. Mary’s

June 28, 2019

For the third time in three years, the Mars girls basketball team has a Division 1 recruit.

Blackhawk pitcher Brendan McKay delivers to the plate against Montour at Chippewa Park.

Ex-Blackhawk baseball star Brendan McKay making major league debut

As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty tries to tackle Seneca Valley’s Jake Mineweaser on Friday, Nov. 2, 2018 at Fox Chapel High School.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations

June 27, 2019

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.

North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football

June 26, 2019

The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.

Thomas Jefferson’s Mac Duda (72) and Darius Barrett (50) line up against Belle Vernon on Sept. 7, 2018, at Belle Vernon.

Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda commits to Ivy League champion

Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda, who counted all eight Ivy League schools among his offers, committed Tuesday to Princeton.

Peters Township baseball coach Joe Maize talks to his players after an inning in a practice game at Peterswood Park baseball field on Jun. 4, 2011.

Peters Township’s Joe Maize resigns as baseball coach after 35 years

June 25, 2019

A sign in Joe Maize’s game room reminds visitors that “Baseball Lives Here,” an item he picked up while visiting Cooperstown, N.Y.

Butler’s Ethan Morton drives to the basket to score between Pine-Richland defenders during their game Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019, at Butler Area High School.

2 WPIAL basketball recruits named in updated ESPN rankings for 2020

June 24, 2019

Two WPIAL basketball recruits received spots close together in updated ESPN 100 rankings for the 2020 class.

Steel Valley’s Andre Good celebrates after the final out in a 5-4 win over Hopewell in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification

The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.

Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings commits to Virginia over ACC rivals

June 23, 2019

Virginia was the first Power 5 program to offer Woodland Hills’ Josh Rawlings a football scholarship in December.

Serra’s Alex Glumac (l) celebrates with Mark Black after hitting out the first pitch of the game against Seton LaSalle Tuesday, June 11, 2019 during PIAA 2-AA baseball semifinals at West Mifflin Area High School.

Serra Catholic’s Mark Black named Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year

The Youghiogheny runs beyond the outfield fence at Boston Field in McKeesport, the home for Serra Catholic baseball.

Seton LaSalle pitcher Drew Lafferty delivers against Serra Catholic during the WPIAL Class 2A final Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

WPIAL’s youth movement shows in 2019 Trib HSSN baseball all-stars

WPIAL baseball has witnessed an influx of talented freshmen in recent years and their arrival is reflected in the Trib 10.

Steel Valley’s Nahki Johnson celebrates with Eshawn Carter after Carter’s return for a touchdown against Wilmington Area during the 2A PIAA semifinal Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at Ambridge High School.

West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL

June 20, 2019

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.

Central Catholic’s Kenneth Blake gets the corner onNorth Allegheny Friday, Sept. 7, 2018 at Newman Stadium at Wright Field.

WPIAL awards playoff eligibility to Kiski, Gateway football transfers

The WPIAL ruled Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake and Gateway’s Shane Thrift fully eligible to play football this fall following separate hearings Thursday at the league office in Green Tree.

WPIAL declares Belle Vernon multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock ineligible

June 18, 2019

Multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock, who transferred from Monessen to Belle Vernon after his freshman year, was ruled ineligible by the WPIAL.

North Catholic’s Tess Myers drives past Bethlehem Catholic’s Briana Barnard during the PIAA Class 4A girls state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

North Catholic’s Tess Myers follows family tradition, commits to Duquesne

June 17, 2019

Four decades after her father committed to Duquesne, North Catholic’s Tess Myers committed Monday to play basketball for the Dukes.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson scores over Mars’ Brandon Caruso during their PIAA Class 5A semifinal Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson remains ineligible after WPIAL denies waiver request

The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.

Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame

June 16, 2019

Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.

Greensburg Central Catholic’s Tom Voelker scores against Homer-Center during a PIAA Class A quarterfinal Thursday, June 7, 2018, at North Allegheny. New legislation could have public and private schools playing in different playoff brackets.

How public-private legislation would alter Pa. high school sports landscape

June 15, 2019

In the hot-button debate over public and private school athletics, the PIAA has consistently said state legislation from 1972 prevents the organization from splitting the schools into separate playoffs.

Seneca Valley lineman Josh Kaltenberger commits to Purdue

Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger received his first Power 5 offer Tuesday from Purdue.

Steel Valley’s Nahki Johnson celebrates with Eshawn Carter after Carter’s return for a touchdown against Wilmington Area during the PIAA Class 2A semifinal Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at Ambridge High School.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson among 5 scheduled for WPIAL hearings Thursday

Football standout Nahki Johnson, who transferred from Steel Valley to West Mifflin in December, will have his eligibility decided Thursday in a hearing at the WPIAL office.

Devon Prep avoids Serra star Mark Black in 7th, dashes Eagles’ PIAA title hopes

June 14, 2019

UNIVERSITY PARK — Devon Prep challenged Serra Catholic star Mark Black three times Friday, but with two outs in the seventh and first base open, there was no reason to take that chance again.

Beaver senior Zach Hansen walks from the field as Selinsgrove players celebrate after the final out of the Bobcats’ 7-4 loss in the PIAA Class 4A state championship game Friday, June 14, 2019, at Penn State University.

‘Nightmarish’ inning costs Beaver in PIAA championship loss to Selinsgrove

UNIVERSITY PARK — This season was mostly a dream come true until the fifth inning Friday, which felt quite the opposite.

Elizabeth Forward shortstop Anna Resnik loses the ball as West Perry’s Tiara Johnson slides into second base in the bottom of the seventh inning of the PIAA Class 4A state championship game Thursday, June 13, 2019, at Penn State University.

West Perry’s walk-off win dashes Elizabeth Forward’s state title hopes

June 13, 2019

UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 41 years as a softball coach, Elizabeth Forward’s Harry Rutherford had never seen a play quite like this.

Bishop Canevin head coach Scott Dibble talks with his team during the PIAA Class 3A girls state championship game against Neumann-Goretti Monday, March 26, 2018, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Scott Dibble resigns as Canevin basketball coach, heads to NBA Finals, U.S. Open

Scott Dibble resigned as Bishop Canevin’s girls basketball coach but that didn’t leave his calendar wide open.

Frazier’s Logan Hartman throws a pitch against Laurel in the WPIAL Class 2A final May 31, 2019, at Trinity Middle School.

Frazier softball’s state championship game moved to Friday as PIAA revamps schedule

UNIVERSITY PARK — The PIAA rearranged its softball and baseball championships schedule Thursday and postponed two games to Friday after rain soaked Penn State’s campus.

Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield drives between Serra Catholic’s Jayden Bristol (left) and Chris Salemi in the WPIAL Class 2A semifinals Feb. 26, 2019, at Peters Township.

WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield transferring from Sewickley Academy

June 12, 2019

WPIAL basketball standout Isiah Warfield, a 25-point scorer last season at Sewickley Academy, has transferred home to Central Valley for his senior year.

Vincentian senior Drew McBrier holds the PIAA Class A runner-up trophy with teammates after the Royals’ 83-61 loss to Sankofa Freedom Academy in the state final Thursday, Mar. 21, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Legislation to split public, private school sports ‘poorly crafted,’ PIAA exec says

June 11, 2019

Legislation introduced Tuesday to split public and private high school athletics was “poorly crafted” and an “end-around of the (State Athletic) Oversight Committee,” said PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi.

Mars Area is reflected in their runner-up trophy after their game against Neumann-Goretti during the PIAA Class AAA boys basketball championship on Friday, March 18, 2016 at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pa. Neumann-Goretti won 99-66.

High school sports proposal would separate public, private playoffs, ax PIAA transfer restrictions

Public and private high schools will compete for separate state championships, and strict transfer rules will vanish under the “Parity in Interscholastic Athletics Act” introduced Tuesday by a Western Pennsylvania state representative.

Moon’s Connor Ryan carries the PIAA Class 5A boys state championship trophy from the court after defeating Archbishop Wood Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Western Pa. representative readies legislation to separate private, public school playoffs

June 10, 2019

The executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference sat down with outspoken public school advocates in February for a frank conversation about the current PIAA playoff system.

Beaver’s Michael Champ is greeted at home plate by teammates after hitting a home run against Blackhawk during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

PIAA postpones all baseball, softball semifinals involving WPIAL teams

The PIAA postponed many of Monday’s baseball and softball semifinals because of weather to Tuesday, including all involving WPIAL teams.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty pursues Seneca Valley’s Jake Mineweaser during a WPIAL playoff game Friday, Nov. 2, 2018 at Fox Chapel High School.

Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty commits to North Carolina

June 9, 2019

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty, who announced more Division 1 offers than any WPIAL football recruit in the 2020 class, cut his long list down to one.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher brings down Derry’s Colton Nemcheck during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds 5th ACC scholarship offer

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher added his fifth ACC offer this week.

Union lineman Aaron Gunn announces Michigan State offer

Union’s Aaron Gunn, a rising junior who’s recruiting stock is also on the rise, announced an offer from Michigan State.

Baseball semifinal sites, times: WPIAL Class 2A finalists rematch at West Mifflin

June 7, 2019

Twelve days after Seton LaSalle defeated Serra Catholic in the WPIAL championship, the section rivals will rematch in the state semifinals.

Hempfield pitcher Callie Sowers celebrates after the final out of a PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal against McDowell Thursday, June 6, 2019, at North Allegheny High School.

Softball semifinal sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams 1 victory away from PIAA finals

Hempfield is one win away from its fourth consecutive appearance in the state softball championships.

North Allegheny’s J.T. Montross (left) celebrates with Joey Colella after scoring next to Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam during their PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal Thursday, June 6, 2019, at La Roche University.

North Allegheny capitalizes on errors to defeat rival Pine-Richland

June 6, 2019

Twelve errors in three games will eventually catch up to any baseball team, even a talented WPIAL champion.

Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson (56) celebrates with Michael Katic after recovering a Central Catholic fumble during their game Friday, Sept. 28, 2018, in Pine.

Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson announces 1st Division 1 offer

Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson, who earned all-conference recognition last season as a sophomore, announced his first Division 1 offer Wednesday from Akron.

West Greene celebrates beating Union in the A WPIAL softball championship Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at Peterwood Park.

PIAA postpones 3 softball playoff games, moves Class 6A baseball quarterfinal

The PIAA postponed three softball games scheduled Thursday at Slippery Rock University and moved the North Allegheny vs. Pine-Richland baseball game to a different site.

WPIAL suspends McKeesport basketball assistant 1 year for recruiting

June 5, 2019

McKeesport pays Troy Blackwell to convince charter school students to return to the school district, but the WPIAL ruled Wednesday that the assistant girls basketball coach’s efforts violated recruiting rules.

WPIAL delays eligibility decision on Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson

Donovan Johnson’s senior season remains in limbo.

Central Catholic basketball coach avoids 1-year suspension, must sit 2 games

Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso avoided a one-year ban for recruiting, but the WPIAL still wants him suspended for a scrimmage and two regular-season games next season.

Elizabeth Forward pitcher Kailey Larcinese fields a soft grounder and throws to first for an out against Punxsutawney in the PIAA first round June 3, 2019, at Peters Township.

Softball sites, times: 11 WPIAL teams reach PIAA quarterfinals

June 4, 2019

WPIAL softball champions Laurel, West Greene and Elizabeth Forward will take part in a PIAA playoff tripleheader Thursday at Slippery Rock University.

Pine-Richland’s Matt Wood celebrates his triple with head coach Kurt Wolfe against Penn-Trafford during the WPIAL Class 6A championship game Thursday, May 30, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Baseball sites, times: North Allegheny, Pine-Richland rematch in quarterfinals

Section rivals Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will rematch Thursday in a PIAA Class 6A baseball quarterfinal at LaRoche College.

Pine-Richland’s Matt Schietroma (7) hoists the WPIAL Class 6A championship trophy with his teammates.

Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title

With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.

4 days after winning WPIAL baseball title, Shaler’s emotional postseason run ends

June 3, 2019

When Shaler’s championship season ended abruptly Monday, baseball coach Brian Junker gathered his players in right field and simply told them “thank you.”

Thomas Jefferson’s Daniel Deabner stiff-arms South Fayette’s Mike Trimbur on a long reception during the WPIAL Class 4A championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

Valparaiso recruits WPIAL with help from former Western Pa. standout

June 2, 2019

Football coaches at Notre Dame and Ball State have found success recruiting the WPIAL, but now another Indiana school has joined the picture.

The 2019 WPIAL Hall of Fame class is standing (from left): Bruce Gradkowski, Charlie Batch, George Anderson, Joe Hardiman, Sean Casey, Paul Posluszny, Guy Montecalvo, Sean Lee, Jim Render, John Woodruff Jr.; seated (from left): Billy Knight, Dan Matsook, Stephanie Madia Mobley, Ryan Michael Estatico, Dom Giallonardo, Valerie Bruno Wright, Gary Tranquill and John Wilkie.

Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee enjoy ‘special’ night at WPIAL Hall of Fame induction

June 1, 2019

Paul Posluszny and Sean Lee were teammates at Penn State, groomsmen in each other’s weddings and close friends throughout their NFL days.

Hollis Mathis is one of 11 Penn Hills players who will participate in the NFBD All-Star Game on Sunday at Cupples Stadium on the South Side.

Plenty of reasons to celebrate for NFBD All-Star players

If Hollis Mathis scores an all-star game touchdown Sunday, he might have to call somebody immediately.

Mt. Pleasant’s Taylor Sofranco bunts the ball on a throw from Thomas Jefferson during WPIAL softball semifinals Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Seton Hill University.

Softball sites, times: 4 WPIAL teams headed to Penn State’s Beard Field for PIAA openers

Four WPIAL softball teams will take an early look at the state championship site.

Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins among 9 WPIAL girls named PTFCA all-state

May 31, 2019

Shady Side Academy runner Melissa Riggins, who set a meet record at the PIAA Class AA track and field championships last week, earned first-team all-state honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

North Allegheny’s Zachary Kinne competes in the AAA boys 1600-meter run during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships on Thursday, May 16, 2019, at Slippery Rock.

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads WPIAL boys on PTFCA all-state team

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne, the WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA champion in the 3,200 meters, was named a first-team all-state selection by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

Pine-Richland’s Matt Schietroma celebrates with JD Armstrong after defeating Penn-Trafford in the WPIAL Class 6A final Thursday, May 30, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Baseball sites, times: PIAA schedules tripleheaders at Latrobe, Butler

Pullman Park in Butler and Latrobe high school will host tripleheaders Monday in the first round of the state baseball playoffs.

Pine-Richland’s Matt Schietroma (7) hoists the championship trophy with his teammates after defeating Penn-Trafford in the WPIAL Class 6A final Thursday, May 30, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title

May 30, 2019

With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.

Beaver rolls past section rival Blackhawk for 4th WPIAL baseball title

May 29, 2019

Six runs was the unofficial goal, but Beaver reached that by the fourth inning and the number just kept going higher.

WPIAL changes start time for Class 3A softball final between Avonworth, Keystone Oaks

With rain in the forecast, the WPIAL moved up the start time for the Class 3A softball final Wednesday at Peterswood Park.

Blackhawk’s Raymond Knallay is mobbed by teammates after his walk-off hit defeated Mt. Pleasant, 7-6, in their WPIAL Class 4A playoff game Monday, May 20, 2019, at Fox Chapel High School.

WPIAL Class 4A baseball final preview: Blackhawk vs. Beaver

WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship

Steel Valley’s Nick Harhai sprays water on Joe Kraft, after Kraft scored the winning run during the eighth inning against Hopewell in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Wild Things Park.

Steel Valley captures 2nd WPIAL baseball title with comeback victory over Hopewell

May 28, 2019

Steel Valley has a knack for championship comebacks.

Aliquippa’s MJ Devonshire splits Sharon’s Trey Jones and Ty Eilam on the way to a touchdown during the Class 3A PIAA semifinal Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 at Milhalik-Thompson .

Aliquippa’s Devonshire among top names playing in Big 33 Classic

May 26, 2019

Track season ended Saturday for Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, who won state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the PIAA championship.

Final results from 2019 PIAA track and field championships

Track and field

PIAA recap: WPIAL athletes win 11 events at state track championships

The weekend started slowly but WPIAL athletes rallied on Saturday and won 11 events at the PIAA track and field championships in Shippensburg.

The Burrell girls 4x100 relay team (from left) Jocelyn Vickers, Allee Kuhns, Madi Walsh and Olivia Kelly talk about their race after winning the Class AA final during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Burrell 400 relay breaks school record, wins PIAA gold

May 25, 2019

SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell sprinter Jocelyn Vickers ran her opening leg of the 400-meter relay and then hurried toward the finish line to wait for her team’s baton to arrive.

Avonworth-Northgate’s Hayden Robinson wins the girls Class AA 100 meter dash during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Avonworth/Northgate’s Hayden Robinson finds ‘relief’ in 100-meter victory at PIAAs

SHIPPENSBURG — There, of course, was happiness and excitement as Hayden Robinson crossed the finish line first at Seth Grove Stadium.

Aliquippa’s MJ Devonshire celebrates as he wins the boys Class AA 100 meter dash during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Aliquippa sprinter M.J. Devonshire wins gold in 100, 200 at PIAA championship

SHIPPENSBURG — Aliquippa has a storied history of all-time great all-around athletes who wore the Quips’ red and black.

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne wins the boys Class AAA 3200 meter run during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads 5 WPIAL runners on 3,200 medal podium at PIAAs

SHIPPENSBURG — North Allegheny’s Zachary Kinne was running at Seth Grove Stadium, otherwise the state championship sure felt a lot like the WPIAL meet.

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo cools off after setting a new state record to win the girls Class AA 3200 meter run during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo defends 3,200 title in record time at PIAA Class AA championship

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo heard a voice from above helping her set a meet record Saturday at the PIAA track and field championships.

Beaver’s Emma Pavelek clears the bar in the girls Class AA high jump competition during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

No WPIAL athletes win PIAA titles on Day 1, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek comes very close

May 24, 2019

SHIPPENSBURG — Beaver sophomore Emma Pavelek leaped plenty high enough to win a state title, matching her top rival jump for jump at Seth Grove Stadium.

Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow competes in a girls Class AA 300 meter hurdles preliminary race during the PIAA track and field state championships Friday, May 24, 2019, at Shippensburg University.

Burrell’s Sharrow redeems herself in 300 hurdles, advances to PIAA finals

SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stumbled to the finish line last year at Seth Grove Stadium and then waited nervously, hoping to hear her named called for the 300-meter finals.

WPIAL controversy settled, Waynesburg hurdler has ‘something to prove to myself’ at PIAAs

This week was calmer than last for WPIAL champion hurdler and pole vaulter Daniel Layton, but it wasn’t without incident.

Avonwoth-Northgate’s Hayden Robinson wins the girls AAA 100m during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships at Slippery Rock University.

WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold

May 23, 2019

Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green works out Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018, at the high school.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green commits to Michigan

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green committed Thursday to Michigan.

Mars celebrates 11th-inning victory over top-seeded West Allegheny in 5A playoffs

May 22, 2019

Four hours after first pitch, long after the sun had set, Mars players and fans joined together on Burkett Field to celebrate their 11-inning victory in the WPIAL baseball playoffs.

Bach sharp as Yough takes down South Park in Class 4A quarterfinals

May 20, 2019

Jarett Bach’s first-round start didn’t meet his high standards, but Monday’s was surely one of his best.

Plum’s Kennedie Montue during practice Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 at Plum High School.

Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue receives 1st Division 1 basketball offer

May 19, 2019

Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue, the team’s leading scorer two years in a row, announced her first Division 1 basketball offer Sunday from Marshall.

Western Pa.-connected Colorado State offers WPIAL offensive linemen

Western Pennsylvania football fans probably know Colorado State as the alma mater of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter.

University Prep’s Michael Snowden lists first FBS football offer

College recruiters are chasing after Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes, but he’s not the only Division 1 football prospect in the City League.

Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White announces Akron offer

Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny football standout Kenny White, now a junior college freshman, announced a scholarship offer from Akron.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green includes Pitt among Top 5 schools

May 18, 2019

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top college recruits before transferring out of state, announced a Top 5 list Friday that included Pitt and four Big Ten schools.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty narrows lengthy offers list to 7 favorites

May 17, 2019

Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty, who leads WPIAL football recruits with more than 40 combined FBS and FCS offers, narrowed his lengthy list Friday.

Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley celebrates winning the boys Class AAA 200 meters during the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University.

Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley earns bragging rights by winning 3 WPIAL gold medals

Brendan O’Malley’s twin brother Bailey won WPIAL gold last season and defended his shot put title again Thursday.

South Park’s Maura Huwalt leads multiple winners at WPIAL championships with 3 gold medals

May 16, 2019

As a six-time WPIAL champion, South Park’s Maura Huwalt now ranks among the most accomplished throwers in WPIAL history.

Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire wins the boys Class AA 100 meters during the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University.

Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire wins 3 golds, replaces Quips great in record book

Breaking a WPIAL record made M.J. Devonshire smile, but what he liked most was that he’d supplanted a fellow Quips great.

Waynesburgh Central’s Daniel Layton wins the boys 110-meter hurdles during the WPIAL Track and Field Championships May 16, 2019, at Slippery Rock University.

Citing ‘something to prove,’ Waynesburg’s Layton defends WPIAL hurdles title

Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton tried not to think about his stressful week when standing at the starting line.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton can defend hurdles title

May 15, 2019

A clerical error will not prevent Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton from defending his WPIAL title in the 110-meter hurdles, the PIAA decided Wednesday.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson scores over Archbishop Wood’s Daeshon Shepherd during the PIAA Class 5A boys state championship game Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Moon basketball’s Donovan Johnson receives North Carolina scholarship offer

May 14, 2019

Hours after earning all-state player of the year honors, Moon’s Donovan Johnson received a scholarship offer from North Carolina.

Moon coach Adam Kaufman fist bumps Donovan Johnson as time winds down in their PIAA Class 5A semifinal victory over Mars Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson leads all-state basketball selections as Pa. Player of the Year in Class 5A

Moon’s Donovan Johnson was named as the state’s Class 5A boys basketball player of the year Tuesday and Adam Kaufman was named coach of the year after leading the Tigers to a PIAA title in March.

WPIAL wants to hear from 2 basketball coaches facing recruiting allegations

May 13, 2019

The WPIAL board voted Monday to schedule hearings for two basketball programs facing recruiting allegations.

Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton turns to PIAA after WPIAL denies his request

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton won’t be able to defend his WPIAL hurdles title unless the PIAA intervenes.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson receives 2nd football offer from Big 12 school

West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson announced his second Big 12 football offer this week.

Blackhawk safety Marques Watson-Trent announces first FBS offer

May 12, 2019

Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent, an all-conference safety and running back, received his first FBS offer this week.

St. Joseph’s Prep quarterback Kyle McCord throws a pass during the PIAA Class 6A state semifinal against Pine-Richland Saturday, Dec. 1 2018, at Mansion Park in Altoona.

USA Today releases “Way-Too-Early” high school football rankings

Football season is still months away, but USA Today released its “Way-Too-Early” high school rankings this week.

Union lineman Aaron Gunn adds 2nd Power 5 offer

One of the WPIAL’s smallest schools features one of the WPIAL’s biggest sophomores.

Pine-Richland second basemen Matt Schietroma (7) competes against Penn-Trafford April 2, 2019 at Pine-Richland.

Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL baseball playoffs

May 10, 2019

Class 6A

Upper St. Clair, Oakland Catholic seeded No. 1 for WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs

Oakland Catholic and Upper St. Clair earned the No. 1 seeds in the WPIAL girls lacrosse brackets revealed Friday.

Penn Trafford’s Tyler Horvat celebrates with Luke Fabac after scoring during the sixth inning against Norwin Thursday, April 18, 2019, at Norwin High School.

Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL baseball playoff brackets

Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny, Greensburg Salem, Freeport, Shenango and California received No. 1 seeds Friday when the WPIAL revealed baseball playoff brackets.

Butler’s Ethan Morton dunks over Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash during their game Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, at Pine-Richland High School.

Butler’s Ethan Morton latest WPIAL basketball recruit headed out of state

May 9, 2019

The WPIAL doesn’t produce an abundance of major-college men’s basketball recruits, but it has seen its share of three- and four-star prospects in recent years.

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton commits to Purdue

Rarely does the WPIAL have a basketball star whose recruitment stretches nearly coast to coast.

North Allegheny’s Rachel Martindale gets a hero’s welcome at home plate from teammates after hitting a grand slam during the fifth inning against Hempfield Thursday, Mar. 28, 2019, at Hempfield Area High School.

North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford earn No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs

North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Mt. Pleasant, Avonworth, Chartiers-Houston and West Greene received No. 1 seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed softball playoff brackets.

North Allegheny, Mars receive top seeds in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs

North Allegheny and Mars received the top seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed brackets for the boys lacrosse playoffs.

Northgate coach T.J. Wiley talks with his team during heat acclimation drills.

Bishop Canevin hires football coach T.J. Wiley

May 8, 2019

Former Northgate, Deer Lakes and Penn-Trafford football coach T.J. Wiley is headed to Bishop Canevin.

3rd WPIAL baseball team forfeits after violating pitch-count rule

May 7, 2019

Two weeks after defeating section-leading Hopewell, Beaver Falls gave the victory back.

Butler’s Ethan Morton (25) celebrates a 40 point night with an upset of No. 1 seeded Pine-Richland during boys 6A semifinal WPIAL action Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area School.

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton will make his college decision this week

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton holds nearly two dozen scholarship offers, having added one after another since Cleveland State gave him his first three summers ago.

Central Valley’ North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski scores past Central Valley’ Allyson Kirby during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

North Catholic basketball teammates add offers just before recruiting shutdown

May 6, 2019

A week-long recruiting shutdown starts Monday for NCAA women’s basketball coaches, but North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski each pulled in an offer just before the deadline.

Texas A&M targets linemen from WPIAL, City League

May 5, 2019

With NFL first-round picks Myles Garrett, Mike Evans and Von Miller all recent Aggies, Texas A&M football coaches can make a strong nationwide pitch to recruits.

Public school advocates plan another ‘athletic equity’ summit

Public school advocates are planning another statewide summit this summer to further their campaign to create separate PIAA playoffs.

Notre Dame offers another Carmody — this time for football

Could Notre Dame recruit two Carmody brothers?

Yough’s Dustin Shoaf leaps into the end zone agianst Deer Lakes Friday Sept. 14, 2018, at Lancers Stadium.

East-West game gives 16 WPIAL football players 1 last go-round

May 4, 2019

May isn’t typical football season in Western Pennsylvania, but it is for 68 seniors from across the state who will gather Sunday in Altoona.

Greensburg Salem’s Aaren Putt rounds the bases past coach Bill Wisniewski after homering against Yough Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at Greensburg Salem High School.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of May 5, 2019

Here are this week’s Trib HSSN baseball rankings:

Pitch-count confusion forces another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit

May 1, 2019

The PIAA’s new pitch-count rule forced another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty adds 40th offer, sets date to announce favorites

A.J. Beatty’s scholarship total has climbed for weeks, but the Central Catholic junior will start narrowing his options soon.

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald adds West Virginia, Syracuse offers

April 28, 2019

Elliot Donald’s uncle ranks among Pitt’s all-time greats, but that didn’t stop West Virginia from recruiting him.

Gatewayճ Derrick Davis intercepts a pass intended for Kiski Areaճ Troy Kuhn in the first half at Gateway. Friday Nov 2, 2018.

Nebraska football makes recruiting push into Western Pennsylvania

Nebraska’s football roster lists 75 players from the Cornhusker State and a number of others from the midwest, but coach Scott Frost’s staff is making a push in Pennsylvania.

Hampton’s Adam Stroud (21) slides after hitting a triple against Moon April 16, 2019 at Hampton.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 28, 2019

April 27, 2019

Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings:

Latrobe’s Sadie Wetzel competes in the girls’ high jump on Saturday, April 27, 2019 in the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association Track and Field Championships at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium.

Latrobe’s Williams leaves home track as big winner at WCCA meet

Latrobe sprinter Zakharee Williams always has considered himself a strong finisher.

Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow competes in the girls’ 300 hurdles finals on Saturday, April 27, 2019 in the Westmoreland County Coaches’ Association Track and Field Championships at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium.

Winning 300 hurdles at WCCA meet a breeze for Burrell’s Sharrow

As Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stood at the starting line, the hurdlers in the other lanes weren’t what concerned her most.

Quaker Valley’s Ryan Stowers drives between New Castle’s Donte Burnett (left) and Demetris McKnight during their game Friday, Jan. 4, 2019, at New Castle High School.

PBC Roundball welcomes several elite players for pair of games Saturday

April 26, 2019

The public address announcer gave Moses Malone a Roundball Classic introduction of Biblical proportions.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces Pitt, West Virginia offers hours apart

April 24, 2019

West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson could watch the recruiting version of the Backyard Brawl.

Brian Urso is the new head coach of the Central Catholic boys basketball team. He was on staff for Robert Morris during the 2018-19 season.

Central Catholic hires college assistant as boys basketball coach

Central Catholic dipped into the college ranks Wednesday and hired Brian Urso as boys basketball coach.

100 or 105? Confusion over pitch-count rule forces WPIAL baseball team to forfeit

When the PIAA increased the baseball pitch count from 100 to 105 last summer, that change affected only the playoffs.

Moon Area’s Donovan Johnson steals the ball from Penn Hill’s Dorian Boyce during semifinal WPIAL action Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at North Hills High School.

Senior season in question for Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson

April 23, 2019

Moon junior Donovan Johnson won a state basketball title this winter as one of the best players in the WPIAL, but his eligibility for next season is in question.

Woodland Hills TE Josh Rawlings names Pitt among his ‘Elite 8’

April 21, 2019

Woodland Hills junior Josh Rawlings, a football recruit with more than two dozen offers, announced Sunday a Top 8 list of favorites that included Pitt.

Butler’s Ethan Morton scores against Pine Richland during boys 6A semifinal WPIAL action Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area School.

Butler’s Ethan Morton draws recognition from USA Today, MaxPreps

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton was named to USA Today’s All-Pennsylvania team — one of two honors the junior received this week.

Josh Scherer and Pine-Richland maintain the top spot in this week’s TribHSSN baseball rankings.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 21, 2019

April 20, 2019

Baseball rankings

In issue of separating public, private schools, PIAA wants time

April 19, 2019

The PIAA administration is watching closely as a state legislator wades into the public vs. private debate, but it would rather see its own competitive-balance efforts given time to work.

Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes adds Penn State offer, drawing recruiters to City League

Westinghouse junior Dayon Hayes is becoming the hottest City League football recruit in years.

Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson participates in a relay at the Wildcat Invitational Track Meet held at Latrobe Memorial Stadium on Saturday, April 13, 2019.

Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson runs state’s fastest 800 meters at Butler Invitational

Greensburg Salem senior Malia Anderson ran the fastest time in the state this season to win the girls 800 meters Thursday at the Butler Invitational.

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis will accept the WPIAL’s Sportsmanship Award at the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit at the Pittsburgh Regional History Center on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2015.

Seneca Valley AD Heather Lewis joining WPIAL board of directors

April 18, 2019

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis is the only newcomer voted onto the WPIAL board of directors this year in election results revealed Wednesday.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher gains popularity with ACC, Big 10 football coaches

Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher is popular with ACC and Big 10 football coaches.

WPIAL requests eligibility hearing for West Mifflin transfer Nahki Johnson

The WPIAL board voted Wednesday to hold an eligibility hearing for West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson.

Pine Richland’s Michael Katic holds the WPIAL 5A Championship trophy after beating Seneca Valley Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018 at Heinz Field.

Decline in ticket sales hurts WPIAL budget, limits money shared back to schools

Penn Hills, Pine-Richland and Butler will receive more than $5,000 apiece from the WPIAL as part of its annual share-back program from playoff gate ticket revenues.

WPIAL softball championships headed to Peterswood Park for 2019

April 17, 2019

The WPIAL softball championships are headed to Peterswood Park in Peters Township next month.

Central Valley’s Christiane Frye battles Blackhawk’s Mady Aulbach for a loose ball during their game Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019, at Central Valley Middle School.

WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes

The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual scholar-athlete scholarship contest. Each receives $1,000 and will be honored at a banquet May 13 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.

The West Greene softball team holds its trophy after winning 5-4 against Monessen in the WPIAL championship at Seton Hill on Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Peterswood Park chosen to host WPIAL softball championships

Peterswood Park in Peters Township will host the WPIAL softball championships next month.

Bill Sinning retiring after 14 years overseeing WPIAL playoff officials

Bill Sinning has overseen WPIAL officials since 2006, but the retired basketball referee will leave that task to someone else next year.

Pitt coaches pursue another Baldwin lineman, extend offer to sophomore

April 16, 2019

From Dave Wannstedt to Jason Pinkston, Baldwin and Pitt have had a number of links through the years.

Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger nears dozen Division 1 football offers

April 14, 2019

Seneca Valley junior Josh Kaltenberger, one of the state’s top centers, is quickly approaching a dozen Division 1 football offers.

Peters Twp. starters celebrates on the bench as time expires in the PIAA Class 6A girls state championship game against Garnet Valley Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Peters Township girls basketball ends perfect season ranked No. 24 nationally

Undefeated record, WPIAL championship, state championship and national ranking.

2 WPIAL sophomores rank among nation’s top football recruits for 2021

Two WPIAL sophomores were ranked this week among the nation’s top football recruits by 247Sports in the websites list of 2021 prospects.

Waynesburg’s Scott Benco claims top distance in state javelin rankings

Waynesburg javelin thrower Scott Benco took over the top spot in the state rankings with a 192-foot, 6-inch toss Saturday, a distance that also ranks him among the nation’s best this season.

Central Catholic sophomore Elliot Donald announces Wisconsin football offer

Paul Chryst left Western Pennsylvania five years ago, but the former Pitt coach still recruits the WPIAL.

Sto Rox DL Andre Frenzley works on his technique during practice Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, at Sto-Rox.R

WPIAL switches 2 Class A nonconference football matchups

The WPIAL let four Class A football teams flip their Week 9 nonconference opponents to create better matchups.

Peters Twp.’s Makenna Marisa drives between Bethel Park defenders during their game Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earns All-American honors from MaxPreps

Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earned All-American honors from MaxPreps which named the senior as one of the nation’s Top 50 girls basketball players.

Norwin’s Jayden Walker celebrates his double during a game against Latrobe Monday, April 8, 2019, at Norwin High School.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 14, 2019

April 13, 2019

Baseball rankings

Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis won two gold and two silver medals at the Tri-State Coaches Association track championships April 13, 2019, at West Mifflin.

Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis earns 4 medals, sets record at TSTCA championship

Two first-place medals, two seconds and a meet record caused Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis to smile Saturday, but so did a candid compliment from her coach.

2 WPIAL girls javelin champions headline Tri-State Track Coaches Championship

April 12, 2019

The girls javelin field at the TSTCA Outdoor Championship will have two defending WPIAL champions Saturday with Elizabeth Forward’s Brianna Spirnak and South Park’s Maura Huwalt each scheduled to throw at West Mifflin.

Seneca Valley, North Allegheny ADs among 18 candidates vying for WPIAL board

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis and North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto are among the school administrators seeking to join the WPIAL board of directors this summer.

Rochester’s Lauryn Williams wins the 100 meter dash Tuesday May 15, 2001 during the WPIAL Class AA championships at South Side High School. Williams also won the 200 meter dash title.

Olympian Lauryn Williams among 11 entering Beaver County Sports Hall

Olympian Lauryn Williams, a Rochester native who won medals in both the Summer and Winter Games, is among 11 inductees set to enter the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame this month.

Allderdice selects former Central Catholic assistant Devin Crummie as boys basketball coach

April 10, 2019

Devin Crummie, a longtime assistant boys basketball coach at Central Catholic, is headed to Allderdice.

Sisters Angie (left) and Adrienne Nardone will play against each other in a softball game April 10, 2019. Angie plays for Ellwood City, and Adrienne plays at North Catholic.

Sister vs. sister: ‘Sibling rivalry’ as North Catholic softball hosts Ellwood City

April 9, 2019

Adrienne and Angie Nardone will share a softball field Wednesday afternoon when Ellwood City visits North Catholic.

WPIAL denies postseason eligibility to 3 softball players after transfers

April 7, 2019

The WPIAL denied postseason eligibility to three softball players under the new PIAA rule that makes transfers ineligible unless they qualify for a specific waiver.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green adds 11th offer since March 1

Former North Catholic standout Nikhai Hill-Green left Pennsylvania this winter, but college recruiters have found him in Maryland.

Peters Twp.’s Journey Thompson scores past Garnet Valley’s Morgan Falcone during the PIAA Class 6A girls state championship game Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Peters Township freshman Journey Thompson adds 2nd basketball offer

Journey Thompson’s remarkable spring continues.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty announces SEC football offer

Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty announced his first SEC offer Saturday, adding to a growing list that already includes ACC, Big 10 and Big 12 schools.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson celebrates as time expires in the Tigers’ 73-55 victory over Mars in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Moon’s Donovan Johnson

Donovan Johnson’s storybook season had a major plot twist near the end.

Peters Twp.’s Makenna Marisa scores past Garnet Valley’s Madison McKee during the PIAA Class 6A girls state championship game Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year: Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa

Makenna Marisa was dominant all season long, but the Peters Township senior seemingly saved her best for under the bright Giant Center lights in Hershey.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces ACC football offer

West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson, who won a WPIAL football title last fall at Steel Valley, added his first Power 5 scholarship offer Saturday.

Chartiers Valley’s Mackenzie Wagner kisses the championship trophy with teammates after defeating Bishop Carroll in the PIAA Class 5A girls state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

2 perfect seasons help shape Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team

April 6, 2019

One word can describe both Peters Township and Chartiers Valley: Perfect.

Butler’ Ethan Morton scores over Mount Lebanon’s Sean Lutheran and Andy Sapp during the 6A boys WPIAL Championship Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Petersen Events Center.

3 high-scoring juniors join senior-heavy Trib 10 boys basketball all-stars

Western Pennsylvania had no shortage of standout scorers this season.

Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 7, 2019

Baseball rankings

West Mifflin Head Coach Ray Braszo works on defensive ball skills with players on Monday, July 28, 2014 at West Mifflin.

Ousted at West Mifflin, football coach Ray Braszo returns to roots in Steel Valley

April 3, 2019

Ray Braszo wore West Mifflin blue and gold for nearly three decades, but the veteran football coach also has deep roots in Steel Valley.

North Allegheny runner posts early-season time to beat in 3,200 meters

March 31, 2019

Outdoor track season is only two weekends old, but elite North Allegheny runner Zach Kinne already holds the state’s top time in the 3,200 meters.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty nears 3 dozen offers with ACC, Big 10, Big 12 options

The offers keep coming for Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty.

Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash shoots a three-pointer over Butler defenders during their game Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019, at Butler Area High School.

Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash commits to Binghamton

Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash, one of the WPIAL’s top seniors, committed Sunday to Binghamton.

Bethel Park’s Maddie Dziezgowski drives past Mt. Lebanon’s Marian Turnbull during their game Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

Bethel Park’s Maddie Dziezgowski commits to St. Bonaventure

Bethel Park junior Maddie Dziezgowski, who helped the Black Hawks reach the WPIAL girls basketball semifinals, announced her commitment Saturday to St. Bonaventure.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher becomes 2nd WPIAL junior with Penn State offer

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher became the second WPIAL junior with a Penn State football offer when the Nittany Lions joined his scholarship list Saturday.

Burrell’s Marshall McKallip (3) and Seth Fischbach celebrate in the outfield after defeating Kiski Area, 4-2, Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2019, at Kiski Area High School.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of March 30, 2019

March 30, 2019

Rankings

Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell commits to UMass

March 29, 2019

Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell, who left the WPIAL for a prep school in Connecticut, committed to Massachusetts on Friday.

Arizona basketball offer adds to Donovan Johnson’s month of madness

March has brought more joy than madness for Moon’s Donovan Johnson and his family.

McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs (6) hauls in a pass to score during their game against Plum on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018.

McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs draws 1st FBS offer as Buffalo blankets WPIAL

March 28, 2019

Buffalo had two football players with Western Pennsylvania roots last season, but the Bulls coaches spent this week trying to boost that number.

Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings prepares for the upcoming 2018 season Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018.

Woodland Hills TE Joshua Rawlings sees 3rd Big 10 school join recruiting list

Woodland Hills junior Joshua Rawlings quickly became one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits.

North Catholic’s Tess Myers adds 8th college offer after reaching state finals

North Catholic’s Tess Myers, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added another Division I offer after leading her basketball team to the state finals.

Mars junior Michael Carmody adds 2 ACC, 2 SEC football offers

Mars junior lineman Michael Carmody added two more ACC and SEC football offers this week, pushing his scholarship total to more than two dozen.

Fresh off NCAA upset, Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield commits to Liberty

March 27, 2019

Isiah Warfield didn’t fill out an NCAA tournament bracket but did urge others to pick against fifth-seeded Mississippi State in the first round.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher wraps up Derry’s Justin Flack during the WPIAL Class 3A championship game Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

Pitt coaches offer scholarship to Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher

Pitt football coaches in decades past found great success recruiting in Aliquippa, a list that starts with all-time greats Mike Ditka, Sean Gilbert and Darrelle Revis.

Bethel Park hires Brian DeLallo as new football coach

March 26, 2019

Bethel Park administrators talked with a handful of football coaches from outside the district, but decided that their best candidate already was on staff.

Chartiers Valley’s Megan McConnell celebrates with Mackenzie Wagner after the Lady Colts defeated Archbishop Carroll in the PIAA Class 5A girls state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Chartiers Valley finishes perfect season with victory over Archbishop Carroll in PIAA finals

March 23, 2019

HERSHEY — Had he known girls were so easy to coach, Tim McConnell would have switched years ago, the longtime boys basketball coach told his team.

Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith celebrates with Keeno Holmes and Andre Wilder after defeating Trinity, 73-72, to win the PIAA Class 3A boys state championship game Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Lincoln Park hangs on for 1-point victory over Trinity in PIAA championship

HERSHEY — This wasn’t the first time Lincoln Park built a double-digit lead and then held its breath until the clock reached zeroes.

Chartiers Valley’s Perri Carlisle-Page scores over Slippery Rock’s Hallie Raabe during their PIAA Class 5A second round state playoff game Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019, at Moon Area High School.

PIAA Class 5A girls championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Archbishop Carroll

PIAA Class 5A girls championship

Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder hugs Isaiah Smith after defeating Sharon, 67-58, in their PIAA Class 3A semifinal Tuesday, Mar. 19, 2019, at New Castle High School.

PIAA Class 3A boys championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Trinity

PIAA Class 3A boys championship

North Catholic’s Tess Myers leads the fast break against Central Valley during the 4A girls WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA Class 4A girls championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Bethlehem Catholic

PIAA Class 4A girls championship

Moon seniors celebrate with the championship trophy after defeating Archbishop Wood in the PIAA Class 5A state final Friday, Mar. 22, 2019, at Giant Center in Hershey.

Moon rallies in 4th quarter to defeat Archbishop Wood in PIAA Class 5A final

March 22, 2019

HERSHEY — Moon coach Adam Kaufman was certain that this win would shock folks around the state.

Bentworth promotes assistant Knabb to coach football team

Bentworth promoted assistant John “J.J.” Knabb to head football coach, said athletic director Brian Malecki.

Moon’s Jioni Smith steals the ball from Mars’ Michael Carmody during their PIAA Class 5A semifinal Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

PIAA Class 5A boys championship breakdown: Moon vs. Archbishop Wood

PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship

Peters Twp.’s Makenna Marisa drives to the basket past Bethel Park’s Emma Dzieggowski and Lauren Mullen during their game Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, at Bethel Park High School.

PIAA Class 6A girls championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Garnet Valley

PIAA Class 6A girls basketball championship

WPIAL title escaped Moon’s grasp, but PIAA championship now within reach

Moon faced a crossroads after the WPIAL finals, a moment when its basketball season could have gone many different directions.

Vincentian falls to Philadelphia’s Sankofa Freedom Academy in PIAA Class A final

March 21, 2019

HERSHEY — While preparing for the state finals, Vincentian Academy coach Tim Tyree studied two separate game films of Sankofa Freedom Academy.

Vincentian Academy boys basketball coach Tim Tyree Jr., leads his team against Monessen in a PIAA Class A boys basketball semifinal March 18, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon.

PIAA Class A boys championship breakdown: Vincentian vs. Sankofa Freedom

PIAA Class A boys championship

Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith celebrates a three-pointer to give him 1,000 career points late in the fourth quarter of a PIAA Class 3A semifinal against Sharon Tuesday, Mar. 19, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Lincoln Park headed back to Hershey after PIAA semifinal win over Sharon

March 19, 2019

Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith launched a 3-pointer from deep in the left corner and then slapped the floor in celebration as his fourth-quarter shot squeezed through the rim.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson celebrates with Jioni Smith (3) and Devontae Humphries as time winds down in their 73-55 victory over Mars in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal Monday, Mar. 18, 2019, at New Castle High School.

Donovan Johnson scores 28, leads Moon past Mars in PIAA semifinals

March 18, 2019

Donovan Johnson and his Moon teammates left in tears after losing to Mars in the WPIAL championship three weekends ago.

Moon’s Mars’ Brandon Caruso scores past Moon’s Jioni Smith during the 5A boys WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

5 things to watch in the PIAA basketball semifinals

Moon and Mars combined for a dramatic WPIAL boys basketball championship earlier this month.

Chartiers Valley’s Megan McConnell shoots a three-pointer to end the first half of the WPIAL Class 5A championship game against Thomas Jefferson Saturday, Mar. 2, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Chartiers Valley, Thomas Jefferson rematch Tuesday

March 17, 2019

WPIAL champion Chartiers Valley and runner-up Thomas Jefferson will rematch at 7 p.m., Tuesday in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal at Peters Township.

Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder looks for an opening as Richland’s Joe Hauser defends during the Class AAA PIAA state basketball playoffs on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at Hempfield Area High School.

PIAA boys basketball sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams reach state semifinals

New Castle’s field house will host a state semifinal two nights in a row.

Oscar Tshiebwe’s double-double leads Kennedy Catholic past Mt. Lebanon in PIAA quarterfinal

March 16, 2019

This state quarterfinal win over Mt. Lebanon, a 17-point victory against a WPIAL champion, “was a world-class butt-whipping,” said Kennedy Catholic coach Rick Mancino.

Mars’ Andrew Recchia hits a shot over Moon’s Austin Ryan during the 5A boys WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA basketball sites, times: Mars vs. Moon boys semifinal at New Castle

The PIAA needed an out-of-this-world site for a state semifinal between Mars and Moon — or at least a gym with lots of seats.

Mars’ Zach Schlegel celebrates after hitting a fourth quarter three-pointer against Meadville during a PIAA Class 5A quarterfinal Friday, Mar. 15, 2019, at Sharon High School.

Mars uses near-perfect 2nd half to defeat Meadville in PIAA quarterfinals

March 15, 2019

Mars coach Rob Carmody felt mixed emotions when Mars freshman Zach Schlegel let fly a 3-pointer with an 11-point lead and two minutes left.

Mt. Lebanon uses hold-the-ball strategy to defeat Allderdice in PIAA 2nd round

March 13, 2019

Mt. Lebanon had a one-point lead in the fourth quarter, so the Blue Devils did what they do best.

Peters’ Isabella Mills scores over North Allegheny’s Brynn Sebin 6A girls WPIAL Championship Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Peters Township vs. Norwin at Keystone Oaks

The PIAA scheduled Peters Township vs. Norwin girls as the late game in a boys/girls basketball doubleheader at Keystone Oaks on Friday night.

Mars’ Michael Carmody and Khori Fusco celebrate with Andrew Recchia after Recchia hit the game winner to beat Moon during the 5A boys WPIAL Championship at Petersen Events Center.

PIAA boys basketball sites, times: Mars, New Castle scheduled back-to-back

WPIAL champions Mars and New Castle will play back-to-back Friday night in a PIAA boys basketball doubleheader at Slippery Rock University.

Turnovers costly as Quaker Valley loses to Bishop McDevitt in PIAA 2nd round

March 12, 2019

HOLLIDAYSBURG — Bishop McDevitt forced 15 first-half turnovers and built a 20-point halftime lead in Tuesday night’s 79-47 victory over Quaker Valley in the PIAA Class 4A second round.

Mars survives foul trouble to defeat York William Penn in PIAA 2nd round

HOLLIDAYSBURG — Mars coach Rob Carmody wrote one word in bold letters on the whiteboard inside the locker room: Poise.

Allderdice’s Tony Henderson shoots a three-pointer over Canon-McMillan’s Ethan Beachy during their PIAA Class 6A first round state playoff game Saturday, Mar. 9, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

5 things to watch in PIAA boys basketball: WPIAL, City League clash

The WPIAL and City League champions will meet head-to-head Wednesday for the fourth year in a row in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.

Seneca Valley takes the field against North Allegheny before their 6A WPIAL semifinal Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at Wright Field at Newman Stadium.

After reaching WPIAL finals, Seneca Valley linemen drawing college offers

March 11, 2019

Seneca Valley reached the WPIAL football finals last fall behind a strong offensive line, and college coaches have taken notice.

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo runs to a first place finish in the Class AA girls race during the TSTCA cross country meet Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, at California University.

Quarzo, Anderson run personal bests at New Balance Nationals Indoor

March 10, 2019

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo and Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson, two of the WPIAL’s top runners, set personal bests Sunday at the New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York.

Penn Hills’ A’Lysa Sledge blocks the shot of Oakland Catholic’s Margaret Terry Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019 at Oakland Catholic.

Sites, times posted for PIAA girls basketball 2nd-round matchups

Class 6A

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes pressures Aliquippa’s Larry Walker during their game Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, at Aliquippa High School.

PIAA 2nd round sites, times announced for boys basketball playoffs

Class 6A

WPIAL, City League champions will clash at Canon-McMillan

WPIAL champion Mt. Lebanon and City League champion Allderdice will meet Wednesday night at Canon-McMillan in the second round of the PIAA Class 6A boys basketball playoffs.

Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson competes in the Class AAA girls 800 meter final during the PIAA track and field state championships Saturday, May 26, 2018, at Shippensburg University.

4 WPIAL track standouts compete Sunday at New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York

Four WPIAL track standouts will compete Sunday at the New Balance Indoor Nationals in New York.

Allderdice’s Terrell Childs celebrates after the Dragons defeated Canon-McMillan in a PIAA Class 6A first round state playoff game Saturday, Mar. 9, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

City League champion Allderdice defeats Canon-McMillan in overtime

March 9, 2019

Canon-McMillan chose to chase Allderdice’s guards around the court, so the Dragons turned instead to their 6-foot-7 center with a scorer’s touch.

Neshannock’s Isabella Burelli blocks the shot of Tyrone’s Reily Ronan during PIAA first-round action Friday March 8, 2019 at North Allegheny High School.

WPIAL champion Neshannock advances in PIAA playoffs with 4-point victory over Tyrone

Neleh Nogay scored 14 points and Bella Burrelli added 10 as WPIAL champion Neshannock defeated Tyrone, 42-38, Friday night in a PIAA Class 3A first-round victory at North Allegheny.

New Castle’s Demetris McKnight scores past Titusville’s Cole Culver during PIAA first-round action Friday March 8, 2019 at North Allegheny High School.

WPIAL champion New Castle holds off Titusville in PIAA 1st-round victory

This was the sixth time New Castle entered the state playoffs as WPIAL champion under coach Ralph Blundo, so he understands the so-called “WPIAL hangover” better than most.

Penn Hills’ Tyree Spencer (11) is fouled by Montour’s Justin LaBrie (10) during a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal game Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 at Fox Chapel.

5 things to watch in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs

March 7, 2019

Coach Dan DeRose and his Penn Hills boys basketball players are leaving at 10 a.m. Friday for a four-hour bus ride to Hershey, the site picked for their state playoff opener.

OLSH quarterback Tyler Bradley celebrates with with teammates as time expires in the WPIAL Class A championship game against Rochester Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at Heinz Field.

WPIAL passing leader Tyler Bradley commits to Seton Hill

March 6, 2019

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Tyler Bradley, the WPIAL’s top passer last season, committed Tuesday to Seton Hill.

Texas A&M joins schools recruiting Gateway sophomore Derrick Davis

Gateway’s Derrick Davis has another major college football team interested in him.

Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm pulls down a rebound next to Thomas Jefferson’s Molly Wagner during the WPIAL Class 5A championship game Saturday, Mar. 2, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm draws basketball offer from Pitt

Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm scored 18 points Saturday at Petersen Events Center when her Colts won the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball title.

Quaker Valley junior Chris Iorio, left, knocks the ball loose from junior Mike Sacco during practice Nov 30, 1998.

PCN will re-air Quaker Valley vs. Annville-Cleonas PIAA basketball final from 1999

March 5, 2019

The Quaker Valley boys basketball team and coach Mike Mastroianni experienced a heartbreaking state championship loss to Annville-Cleonas 20 years ago this winter.

Amy Scheuneman talks with high school students attending an Empowering Girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold thru Athletics conference at Duquesne University’s AJ Palumbo Center, Tuesday, May 10, 2016.

North Hills AD Amy Scheuneman joining WPIAL administration

March 4, 2019

North Hills athletic director Amy Scheuneman will resign this summer and accept an administrative position with the WPIAL.

Pine-Richland’s Luke Meckler (2) reaches the ball over the goal line during their game against Mt. Lebanon at Pine-Richland High School on Nov. 9, 2018.

Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler adds 1st FBS offer

March 3, 2019

Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion Rams, added his first FBS offer.

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds Big 10 offer

Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher, a standout linebacker on a state championship defense, added his first Big 10 college offer.

Pitt, WVU recruits among Maryland picks for Big 33 Football Classic

Pitt recruit A.J. Woods, a cornerback from Germantown, Md., was among the 38 high school football players chosen to represent Maryland in the Big 33 Football Classic.

Mt. Lebanon shows patience in WPIAL championship win over Butler

March 2, 2019

Mt. Lebanon wanted to keep the ball out of Ethan Morton’s hands, so the Blue Devils just held onto it themselves.

Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero drives to the basket past New Castle’s Drew Cox during their game Friday, Jan. 4, 2019, at New Castle High School.

WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preview: New Castle vs. Quaker Valley

Class 4A boys

WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball preview: Butler vs. Mt. Lebanon

Class 6A boys

Recchia’s late 3-pointer helps Mars defend WPIAL Class 5A championship

March 1, 2019

Andrew Recchia was the only person at Petersen Events Center who already knew how this WPIAL championship would end.

Serra Catholic’s jimmy Moon (5) goes to the hoop against Sto-Rox’s Dre Frenzley (22) and Jamil Williams during their WPIAL Class 2A playoff game Feb. 22, 2019, at Peters Township.

WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball preview: OLSH vs. Serra Catholic

Class 2A boys

Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith drives to the basket past North Catholic’s Jackson Paschall during the WPIAL Class 3A boys championship game Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, at Petersen Events Center.

Lincoln Park tops North Catholic to claim WPIAL Class 3A championship

February 28, 2019

Against one of the WPIAL’s top shooting teams, Lincoln Park’s defense was willing to trade 3s for 2s.

Butler’s Ethan Morton (25) celebrates a 40-point night with an upset of No. 1-seeded Pine Richland during a Class 6A semifinal Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Fox Chapel Area School.

Butler boys advance to WPIAL finals after emotional win over rival Pine-Richland

February 27, 2019

The final minute was so emotional, so unbelievable, that it seemed like an eternity to Ethan Morton and his Butler teammates.

North Catholic’s Zack Rocco grabs a rebound between the Aliquippa defenders during semifinal WPIAL action Monday, Feb. 25, 2019 at North Allegheny High School.

WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball finals preview: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic

Class 3A boys

WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball preview: Mars vs. Moon

Class 5A boys

Moon Area’s Donovan Johnson grabs a rebound over Penn Hill’s Wes Kropp during semifinal WPIAL action Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at North Hills High School.

Johnson’s double-double guides No. 3 Moon past Penn Hills in Class 5A semifinals

February 26, 2019

Two years ago, a star basketball player transferred home to Moon, reunited with his childhood friends and led the Tigers’ run to the WPIAL finals.

Central Catholic head boys basketball coach Chuck Crummie during the AAAA WPIAL championship game against Moon at AJ Palumbo Center Feb. 2008.

Longtime coach Chuck Crummie ‘hurt’ after Central Catholic fires him

Chuck Crummie will no longer coach on Chuck Crummie Court.

Five things to watch in the WPIAL boys basketball semifinals

February 25, 2019

As the old saying goes, it’s hard to beat a team three times in one season.

Chartiers-Houston girls basketball coach Laura Montecalvo urges on her team during the WPIAL finals Saturday, March 2, 2018 at Petersen Events Center.

West Allegheny hires WPIAL champion to replace Bob Palko as track coach

February 22, 2019

West Allegheny lost one WPIAL champion coach but quickly added another.

No. 1 Lincoln Park scores first 14 points in victory over Beaver Falls

February 21, 2019

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes made a 3-pointer on the opening possession and Isaiah Smith added another seconds later as the Leopards scored the first 14 points in Thursday night’s 82-54 victory over Beaver Falls in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal at New Castle.

No. 2 Aliquippa erases 14-point second-half deficit to defeat Neshannock

M.J. Devonshire was taking his official recruiting visit to Kentucky when Aliquippa lost to Neshannock in January, a loss that bothered him hundreds of miles away.

Tim O’Malley, executive director of the WPIAL speaks Wednesday April 13, 2016 before new members of the WPIAL Hall of Fame are introduced during an event at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum in the Strip District.

WPIAL Hall of Fame to announce 13th induction class

February 20, 2019

For some all-time WPIAL greats, 13 will be their lucky number.

WPIAL adds 2 boys basketball teams for 2019-20 season

One WPIAL boys basketball section will have a new look next season.

Carlynton hires former Peters Township football coach Piccinini

Carlynton has hired Rich Piccinini as football coach, the school announced Wednesday.

Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes celebrates his three-pointer during overtime against Aliquippa Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, at Aliquippa High School.

WPIAL schedules Aliquippa/Lincoln Park doubleheader at New Castle

February 19, 2019

Lincoln Park and Aliquippa, the WPIAL’s top seeds in Class 3A boys basketball, can’t meet until the finals.

Shaler’s Mekhi Reynolds battles against McKeesport’s Justin Todd during a WPIAL Class 5A playoff game Feb. 18, 2019, at Fox Chapel.

Shaler defeats McKeesport, celebrates 1st playoff win since ’12

It’s been awhile since this kind of celebration was heard inside Shaler’s locker room.

Fox Chapel’s Seneca Valley’s Tre Rosell and Marcus Might during WPIAL playoff action Monday, Feb. 19, 2019 at North Allegheny High School.

Fox Chapel feels it after 1st quarter, beats Seneca Valley

February 18, 2019

Fox Chapel missed 10 of its first 11 shots Tuesday night, a dismal start that could have doomed the team’s playoff hopes, but then suddenly, they almost couldn’t miss.

4 WPIAL athletes win multiple individual golds at TSTCA indoor championship

February 17, 2019

Mt. Lebanon junior Patrick Anderson ran the state’s fastest mile Saturday and four WPIAL athletes won multiple individual gold medals at the TSTCA indoor championships in Edinboro.

Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy kisses the state championship trophy after the Indians defeated Manheim Central in the PIAA Class 5A final Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, at Hersheypark Stadium.

Penn Hills football’s Daequan Hardy receives another postseason award

Penn Hills senior Daequan Hardy added another postseason honor to his list.

Ohio State joins list of schools recruiting Mars’ Michael Carmody

February 15, 2019

Mars junior Michael Carmody added his ninth Big 10 football offer Thursday when conference champion Ohio State joined his scholarship list.

North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green works out Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2018, at the high school.

North Catholic football standout Nikhai Hill-Green announces transfer out of state

North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green, one of the WPIAL’s top football players, said Friday that he’s transferring out of state.

Upper St. Clair head coach Danny Holzer talks with Andrew Casey during their game against Mt. Lebanon Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

5 things to watch in the opening round of the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs

February 14, 2019

Good bye or bad bye?

Union’s Michael Flowers shoots a three-pointer, as Clairton’s Leonard Robinson defends during their WPIAL Class A playoff game Friday, Feb. 15, 2019, at Hampton High School.

No. 6 Union tops No. 11 Clairton with barrage of third-quarter 3-pointers

Union followed a nine-point second quarter with a 29-point third, and the difference was a few well-timed 3-pointers.

PIAA football semifinals schedule: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland head east

November 25, 2018

Penn Hills and Pine-Richland have long bus rides ahead next weekend, while three other WPIAL football champions can stay closer to home. The PIAA announced semifinal sites and times Sunday. Penn Hills will travel to Chambersburg for a matchup with Archbishop Wood at 7 p.m., Friday. Pine-Richland returns to Altoona's

WPIAL causes buzz by seeding Burgettstown second in deep Class 2A bracket

October 29, 2018

When the Class 2A bracket appeared on the overhead screen, Mark Druga knew immediately that his phone would start buzzing, so he turned it off. andquot;I did not want to interrupt the process,andquot; the Burgettstown coach said Monday at the WPIAL pairings meeting. andquot;I didn't want to be that guy,

With Heinz Field rematch possible, might Pine-Richland, North Allegheny hold back in regular-season finale?

October 26, 2018

It's possible that Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will play one another twice in the span of a few weeks. The two top-ranked rivals are favorites to rematch in the WPIAL Class 6A final, so might that affect how NA coach Art Walker and Pine's Eric Kasperowicz approach Friday's matchup in

Five things we learned in Week 8 of high school football

October 20, 2018

Anyone have a spare quarter It's looking likely the WPIAL will need a coin flip to break a three-way tie for first place in the Class A Tri-County South. If head-to-head results, Gardner Points and the WPIAL's margin-of-victory formula can't break a tie, the deciding factor becomes chance. The WPIAL

WPIAL high school football rankings for week of Oct. 6, 2018

October 6, 2018

WPIAL football Class 6A 1. Pine-Richland, 6-1, 1 2. North Allegheny, 7-0, 2 3. Central Catholic, 5-2, 3 4. Seneca Valley, 5-2, 4 5. Mt. Lebanon, 3-4, 5 Out: none Class 5A 1. Gateway, 7-0, 1 2. Penn Hills, 7-0, 2 3. Peters Township, 5-2, 3 4. West Allegheny, 5-1,

Undefeated records add intensity to Aliquippa-Beaver Falls rivalry

September 21, 2018

Mike Warfield graduated from Aliquippa, played quarterback for the Quips and now is the football team's first-year coach. His wife is a Beaver Falls native

Five things we learned from Week 2 of high school football

September 8, 2018

Greg Perry's teams are known for throwing the football. In his time at Seton LaSalle, where he went from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator and

Title game rematches on tap in Week 2 of high school football

September 6, 2018

RJ Hart and his Imani Christian teammates have waited nearly 10 months for this week. They've craved a rematch with Jeannette ever since last year's

Central Catholic uses ‘mean, nasty football’ to break Cathedral Prep’s 28-game wins streak

August 25, 2018

Central Catholic's offense ran the football 28 times in the second half Friday, mostly between the tackles, and its defense held strong on a crucial

North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens places 12th at IAAF World U20 Championship

July 12, 2018

Ayden Owens' international track debut didn't end with a medal Wednesday, but the decathlete did add his name to the IAAF record books. The recent

Class 5A football coaches approve of WPIAL’s choice for title game

June 25, 2018

Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane and Gateway's Don Holl understand the atmosphere and excitement that come with Heinz Field. Their teams were there on opposite

Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognizes Vincentian baseball team

June 21, 2018

The state House of Representatives recognized Vincentian Academy's baseball team for its PIAA championship during a ceremony Thursday in Harrisburg. Speaker of the House Mike

Red Land's Joey Cotto scores past North Hills catcher JT Mazula during the third inning of their PIAA Class 5A first round playoff game Monday, June 4, 2018, at Wild Things Park.

WPIAL champion North Hills falls to Red Land in opening round of PIAA playoffs

June 4, 2018

Five days after celebrating a WPIAL baseball championship at Wild Things Park, North Hills' magical season ended on the same field. North Hills managed only

Arizona freshman Jordan Geist competes during the Desert Heat Classic on April 28, 2018, at Drachman Stadium in Tucson, Ariz.

Knoch’s Jordan Geist headed to NCAAs in both shot put, discus

June 3, 2018

PIAA record-holder Jordan Geist, now a freshman thrower at Arizona, will compete for a national title in the shot put and discus this week at

Penn Hills’ Daivon Stephens signs with Eastern Michigan

May 12, 2018

Daivon Stephens, who led Penn Hills to a WPIAL Class 6A basketball title, signed Saturday with Eastern Michigan. Penn Hills announced the senior's decision on

Thomas Burns wins state football title in Pa., track title in Fla.

May 7, 2018

In the same school year, Thomas Burns won a state football title in Pennsylvania and a state track title in Florida. Burns, the brother of

Downpour creates ‘brutal’ 1,600 meters at Baldwin Invite

May 5, 2018

Mt. Lebanon's Patrick Anderson was leading the boys 1,600-meter race when the storm clouds let loose over the Baldwin Invitational. The rain was shockingly cold,

North Allegheny’s Ayden Owens breaks Dion Bentley’s decades-old record at Baldwin Invitational

Days like this are why Ayden Owens is a Southern Cal recruit. The North Allegheny senior dazzled Friday at the Baldwin Invitation by sweeping the

Tennis finals rematch among Friday’s 3 things to watch in high school sports

May 4, 2018

For the second season in a row, Peters Township's Connor Bruce and Fox Chapel's Robby Shymansky will battle in the WPIAL tennis finals. The two

Class AA boys team tennis tournament tops Friday’s WPIAL schedule

April 20, 2018

Sewickley Academy starts its quest for a 15th consecutive WPIAL Class AA championship when the boys team tennis tournament begins Friday with first-round matches. Sewickley

Quaker Valley’s offense struggles in PIAA semifinal loss to Sharon

March 20, 2018

For Quaker Valley, this was the kind of night where even a breakaway layup bounced off the side of the rim. Sharon quickly grabbed that

Baskets scarce as Franklin Regional edges Moon in WPIAL quarterfinals

February 23, 2018

Two free throws in the final 22 seconds by junior Nick Leopold accounted for Franklin Regional's entire offensive output for the fourth quarter. Somehow, those

Aliquippa school board votes to open position of football coach Mike Zmijanac

February 21, 2018

Mike Zmijanac listened quietly from the small auditorium's seats as a former player and several others asked the Aliquippa school board to let the hall

OLSH-Sewickley Academy rematch part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics

February 9, 2018

Two points separated Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and Sewickley Academy when the boys basketball teams met last month. OLSH won 70-68, breaking their

Allderdice, Canon-McMillan, Jeannette enter PIAA boys basketball rankings

January 29, 2018

A day after rising to No. 1 in the Trib's WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball rankings, Canon-McMillan earned a spot in the City of Basketball

Mt. Lebanon's Aidan Cain stiff-arms Hempfield's Austin Gockel during the second half Friday, Sept. 8, 2017, at Mt. Lebanon High School.

Mt. Lebanon wideout Aidan Cain commits to William & Mary

January 27, 2018

When college recruiters visited Mt. Lebanon, football coach Mike Melnyk told them to keep their eyes on little-known Aidan Cain. The wideout had Division 1

Boys basketball section rematches are part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics

January 18, 2018

A number of boys basketball sections have reached the season's midway point, so it's time battle everybody again. Among Friday night's games is a section

Quaker Valley's Coletrane Washington drives between Ambridge's De'Marri Jones (5) and Monterey Carpenter during their game Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018, in Leetsdale.

Top-ranked Quaker Valley gets defensive to defeat No. 2 Ambridge

January 17, 2018

With Drexel recruit Coletrane Washington in the lineup, Quaker Valley can score with anybody in the WPIAL, so a 23-point quarter isn't all that unusual.

Three top-ranked teams to compete at Mt. Lebanon

January 3, 2018

Three top-ranked WPIAL basketball teams will share a gym Saturday when Mt. Lebanon hosts andquot;The Challenge.andquot; The 10-team event features the top-ranked Mt. Lebanon boys

Bethel Park boys hold off Upper St. Clair rally in Section 2-6A clash

After a gritty 26-point effort, Bethel Park senior Justin Meis still surmised that he's probably not the best basketball player on the team or even

Pine-Richland's Phil Jurkovec (15) hands the ball off to Kenny White (1) during their WPIAL playoff game in Ambridge on Nov. 10, 2017.

QB Phil Jurkovec shines as No. 1 Pine-Richland tops rival North Allegheny to reach WPIAL Class 6A final

November 11, 2017

The only accolade absent from Phil Jurkovec's resume, a sensational three-year span that already has him mentioned among the WPIAL greats, is a championship. He

Montour's Jaxon Schrenker slaps the hands of young cheerleaders as he takes the field for a game against Mars Friday, Sept. 15, 2017, in Robinson.

High school football notebook: Rematches tough to avoid in WPIAL 1st round

November 1, 2017

Montour and New Castle tied for second in the Northwest Nine, but the WPIAL scheduled them head-to-head for the ultimate tiebreaker. The conference foes meet

California among top seeds for WPIAL football playoffs

October 30, 2017

The WPIAL football committee wasn't always kind to the Tri-County South Conference. So, California coach Darrin Dillow wasn't sure his undefeated Trojans would be a

Harlan on recruiting: Joey Porter Jr. making a name for himself at NA

October 25, 2017

Joey Porter Jr. was born with one of the most recognizable names in the WPIAL, but the North Allegheny junior quickly is making a name

McKeesport's Layton Jordan gets tackled by Gateway defensive players when Gateway hosted Mckeesport, Friday, October 20, 2017.

Gateway defense comes through in clutch to defeat McKeesport

October 21, 2017

As the clocked ticked away, as McKeesport was pushing downfield, as Gateway's lead started to feel temporary, Gators junior Jeremiah Josephs started thinking about last

Fox Chapel football head coach Tom Loughran shakes hands with Junior Cole Waxter after the Foxes scored a touchdown in the first half of game Friday night against West Allegheny.

5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football: Teams control playoff destiny

October 19, 2017

Win and you're in. That's the mindset a number of WPIAL teams can embrace Friday night, knowing their playoff destinies are entirely in their own

The Upper St. Clair football team celebrates a 21-20 win over West Allegheny in overtime Friday, Oct. 6, 2017, in North Fayette.

Upper St. Clair upsets No. 1 West Allegheny in OT after failed 2-point conversion

October 7, 2017

Your luck finally ran out, Upper St. Clair's Jim Render told West Allegheny's Bob Palko with a lighthearted chuckle, as the two coaches embraced. Palko

Imani Christian's Brian Yates carries for a touchdown past Jeannette's Ian Smith during the second quarter Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Wilkinsburg.

Five things we learned from Week 4 of high school football

September 30, 2017

This wasn't quite David and Goliath, but Imani Christian coach Ronnell Heard considered Friday's win a godsend. andquot;I think Friday night was a moment in

Penn-Trafford's Will Mayr (53) forces a fumbles on Plum's Marcus Thomas (25) in the third quarter of a WPIAL 5A conference game on Friday Sept. 08, 2017 at Penn-Trafford.

Five things to watch in Week 5: Teams jockey for position in Big East Conference

September 28, 2017

That will become a little more clear after No. 3-ranked Gateway visits No. 2 Penn-Trafford on Friday night for a first-place matchup of undefeated teams.

Pine-Richland's Jason DeFrancisis (17) celebrates his touchdown with Dawson Goltz next to Wayne's Justin Harris during the second quarter Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017, in Pine.

5 things to watch in Week 4: Pine-Richland heads to Bethel Park for battle of unbeatens

September 21, 2017

Battle of the unbeatens Bethel Park has linemen with some size, an offense that controls the football and a defense that has allowed just four

Harlan on recruiting: East Allegheny TE Banks sets commitment date

August 30, 2017

East Allegheny senior TJ Banks decided this week to pick a Wednesday in mid-October as his commitment date, the day he'll announce which Division I

Pine-Richland quarterback Phil Jurkovec leaps past Central Catholic's Clay Myers during the second quarter Friday, Sept. 30, 2016, at Highmark Stadium.

HS football position by position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks

August 12, 2017

The WPIAL had its first career 5,000-yard passer in 1993, when then-North Hills senior Eric Kasperowicz reached the lofty number. Now, the list is almost

Influential WPIAL administrator Charles ‘Ace’ Heberling dies

December 9, 2019

Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday. He was 94.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon adds 2 offers as NCAA coaches enter contact period

High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.

Gateway sophomore Patrick Body adds first Division I football offer

Gateway sophomore Patrick Body made two of the Gators’ most important catches in the playoffs and was rewarded this week with his first Division I college offer.

WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne

December 8, 2019

As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.

Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship

December 7, 2019

HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.

Going up? PIAA could force Southern Columbia, others into higher football classification

Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.

Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship

December 6, 2019

Thomas Jefferson dominates Dallas, celebrates 4th PIAA title

December 5, 2019

HERSHEY — Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak had coached 24 seasons, won seven WPIAL titles and celebrated three state championships before this year.

Avonworth will ‘relish’ underdog role against 9-time PIAA champion Southern Columbia

Avonworth coach Duke Johncour acknowledges the apparent mismatch his football team is walking into Friday when the Antelopes make their first state championship appearance.

Thomas Jefferson sees ‘mirror image’ in state championship opponent Dallas

December 4, 2019

Ambridge basketball coach Mark Jula retires week before season opener

December 2, 2019

Ambridge boys basketball coach Mark Jula started to question his passion for the job, so he retired a week before the season opener.

Central Catholic loses in overtime to nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep

November 30, 2019

Fast start leads Thomas Jefferson to PIAA semifinal victory over Lampeter-Strasburg

November 29, 2019

HOLLIDAYSBURG — After an 11-year wait, Thomas Jefferson is finally headed back to Hershey, but there wasn’t much suspense in the victory that made it happen.

Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep

National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.

Gateway star Derrick Davis ‘game-time decision’ as Gators draw rematch with Archbishop Wood

November 27, 2019

Archbishop Wood had a four-star recruit two years ago when the Philadelphia Catholic League power walloped Gateway in a lopsided state championship game.

Thomas Jefferson, Belle Vernon lead Big Eight all-conference with 8 players each

Conference champion Thomas Jefferson had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in the Big Eight, and quarterback Shane Stump was named Offensive Player of the Year in a vote of coaches.

Central Valley tops Tri-County West with 11 all-conference selections

Beaver Falls running back Josh Hough and Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Schrubb shared Offensive MVP honors in the Tri-County West in a vote of conference coaches.

Burgettstown tops Three Rivers all-conference with 9 on 1st team

Burgettstown completed its second consecutive undefeated regular season and was rewarded by Three Rivers coaches with nine players on the all-conference first team.

Clairton’s Brendan Parsons, Jeannette’s Justin Cramer lead Eastern all-conference team

Clairton and Jeannette, the top two teams in the Eastern, had 19 players combined earn first-team all-conference honors in a vote of coaches.

West Greene record-setter Ben Jackson leads Tri-County South all-conference

West Greene running back Ben Jackson, who became the first WPIAL rusher to top 3,000 yards in a season, was among the players recognized by coaches in the Class A Tri-County South.

Undefeated Avonworth earns 14 spots on all-conference 1st team in Allegheny

Undefeated conference champion Avonworth dominated the all-conference voting this season by claiming 14 of the available 28 first-team spots.

Cornell, Laurel sweep individual awards on Big 7 all-conference team

Cornell earned a share of the Big Seven title and a home playoff game for only the second time in school history, accomplishments that shaped all-conference voting.

WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player

November 25, 2019

The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.

Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title

November 23, 2019

Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.

Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses

Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.

Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle

November 22, 2019

The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.

WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township

WPIAL Class 5A championship

WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?

Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?

Central Catholic keeps focus on State College with possible St. Joseph’s matchup looming

November 21, 2019

Central Catholic could have a showdown with defending state champion St. Joseph’s Prep on the horizon, an East vs. West clash with the nationally ranked Philadelphia power.

Ineligible Avonworth football player drops lawsuit against WPIAL, PIAA

Attorneys for ineligible Avonworth football player Kyros Thorpe withdrew his lawsuit against the WPIAL and PIAA on Thursday, ending his legal battle to play in the WPIAL football championship.

Wyatt Henson returns to Waynesburg after winning Missouri state wrestling title

Missouri state wrestling champion Wyatt Henson has transferred back to Waynesburg, but the junior isn’t eligible for the WPIAL or PIAA postseason tournaments this winter.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe seeks court injunction to play in WPIAL Class 2A football final

November 20, 2019

Turned away by both the WPIAL and PIAA, Avonworth senior Kyros Thorpe is taking his eligibility battle to court.

Basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible for postseason after WPIAL denies waiver

November 18, 2019

WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible to play in the playoffs this winter.

West Mifflin possibly used ineligible football player all season, WPIAL says

The WPIAL wants to hear from West Mifflin’s football coach and school administrators to determine whether the Titans used an ineligible football player all season.

WPIAL board unanimously approves Ligonier Valley request to join District 7

The WPIAL board voted unanimously Monday to accept Ligonier Valley as a member.

Opalko’s late field goal lifts Central Catholic past Pine-Richland in WPIAL Class 6A final

November 16, 2019

This was a kick that might make NFL kickers nervous.

Aliquippa quarterback plays in WPIAL championship hours after mother’s death

On the eve of the WPIAL championships, Aliquippa football coach Mike Warfield received a desperate text message from his quarterback.

WPIAL Class 6A football finals primer: Central Catholic vs. Pine-Richland

WPIAL Class 6A championship

Gateway’s defense uses 4th-down stands to edge McKeesport in WPIAL semifinals

McKeesport’s Devari Robinson sprinted forward on fourth-and-4, colliding with Gateway linebacker Jay Johnson, who dragged him to the Offutt Field turf.

5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football: TJ’s Cherpak draws Belichick comparisons

November 15, 2019

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak chuckles at the comparison, but maybe it’s too not farfetched?

WPIAL Class 4A football finals primer: Thomas Jefferson vs. Belle Vernon

WPIAL Class 4A championship

WPIAL championship rematch with fearsome Central Catholic line awaits Pine-Richland

One lineman is the talented nephew of an NFL superstar. One is 6-foot-5 and committed to North Carolina. The two others are gigantic twin brothers with more than 20 scholarship offers.

Familiar foes Belle Vernon, Thomas Jefferson to meet for WPIAL Class 4A title

November 13, 2019

Belle Vernon knocked loudly on the WPIAL championship door two years in a row without an answer, each time losing in the semifinals.

PIAA postpones Tuesday’s state soccer semifinals at Hampton, Slippery Rock

November 12, 2019

Snow-covered fields forced the PIAA to postpone Tuesday’s soccer semifinals at Hampton and Slippery Rock.

Midwestern: New Brighton’s Francona, Western Beaver’s Altenbaugh lead all-conference team

November 11, 2019

New Brighton receiver Jake Francona and Western Beaver linebacker Zach Altenbaugh earned MVP honors this season in the Midwestern Athletic Conference.

Northern: Penn Hills lands 9 players, coach on 1st-team, all-conference list

Penn Hills had nine players voted first-team all-conference by coaches including eight on the defensive side of the football.

Big East: 9 from Penn-Trafford voted 1st-team all-conference, Ruane top coach

bPenn-Trafford went undefeated in the regular season and dominated the Big East once again Monday in the all-conference voting.

Allegheny 8: Peters Township leads all-conference voting with 8 on 1st team

Moon went from one conference win to a share of the Allegheny Eight title, a turnaround that earned Ryan Linn conference coach of the year honors.

Central Catholic leads 6A all-conference team; Canon-Mac’s Evans top coach

Central Catholic, North Allegheny and Pine-Richland finished tied as tri-champions in WPIAL Class 6A, but the Vikings ran away with the all-conference vote.

Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team

November 10, 2019

Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

Washington leads all-conference selections in Class 2A Century

Washington quarterback Zack Swartz, lineman Zakhi Marshall and coach Mike Bosnic won individual awards in the Class 2A Century.

Five things we learned in high school football Week 11

November 9, 2019

With another celebration at Heinz Field, Central Catholic or Pine-Richland can call itself the team of the decade in the WPIAL’s largest classification.

Peters Township wins rematch with Moon in WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal

November 8, 2019

When Peters Township lost to Moon in the regular season, Josh Casilli’s stat line read: one catch, six yards.

Allegheny 8 co-champions Moon, Peters Township rematch in WPIAL quarterfinals

The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.

After 2 winless seasons, Butler football might leave WPIAL for independent schedule

November 7, 2019

Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team might leave the WPIAL for an independent schedule next season.

5 things to watch in Week 11 of high school football: North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon looking to flip script

How much can change in 14 days?

PIAA football realignment: What classification will teams call home in 2020, 2021?

PIAA football teams learned Thursday which classification they’ll call home next season.

Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan ‘Puff’ Johnson commits to North Carolina

November 5, 2019

Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson committed Tuesday night to North Carolina, choosing a school where older brother Cameron played.

WPIAL announces football playoff sites for Week 11: Class 5A rematch at West A

November 4, 2019

Peters Township and Moon, co-champions in the Allegheny Eight, will play for the second time in six weeks when they meet Friday night in a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal at West Allegheny.

Pine-Richland lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3rd Division I offer

November 3, 2019

Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson, one of the WPIAL’s top pass rushers, added his third Division I offer this week.

2 WPIAL seniors receive 1st Division I offers from Rhode Island

Two WPIAL football players received their first Division I offers this week from the same FCS school.

5 things we learned in Week 10: McGuffey, West Greene celebrate 1st WPIAL playoff win in decades

November 2, 2019

McGuffey waited 25 years for Friday night’s celebration. West Greene waited 26. New Brighton waited 18.

QB Ethan Dahlem exits, but fast start leads Upper St. Clair past North Hills

November 1, 2019

Like a scene from scary movie, Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem’s head and helmet were twisted around in the wrong direction as he crossed the goal line.

Upper St. Clair out to deny North Hills its 1st playoff win since 2010

North Hills and Upper St. Clair haven’t played one another in nearly a decade, but a first-round matchup has stirred some nostalgia.

Home-field advantage weighs heavy in WPIAL playoffs

October 31, 2019

North Hills’ Rowdie Rooters, the team’s famed hilltop cheering section, hasn’t celebrated a home playoff game at Martorelli Stadium in almost a decade.

2nd WPIAL football playoff game moved to artificial turf

Friday’s forecast predicts drier weather, but Thursday’s rain was enough to force two WPIAL football playoff games to be moved off grass.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes Clairton’s Wayne Wade III eligible for football playoffs

Clairton senior Wayne Wade III can participate in the football playoffs, the PIAA decided Thursday, overturning a WPIAL decision on the eve of the postseason.

Weather forecast forces Cornell to move football playoff game to West Allegheny

October 30, 2019

The Cornell football team was hoping to play its first home playoff game since 1983, but a rainy forecast has changed those plans.

Choosing Washington or Avonworth for No. 1 seed among WPIAL’s toughest bracket picks

October 28, 2019

Choosing the No. 1 seeds was maybe easier than usual for the WPIAL football committee with one exception: Class 2A.

Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL football playoffs

Class 6A

5 things we learned in Week 9: Cornell earns 1st home playoff game since 1983

October 26, 2019

Many at Cornell couldn’t remember the football team ever hosting a playoff game, coach Ed Dawson said, but that’s understandable after more than three decades.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 9

WPIAL Football

Pine-Richland defeats rival North Allegheny, creates 3-way tie for conference title

October 25, 2019

Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer scanned across North Allegheny’s defense, spotted a safety out of position and turned that mistake into a 79-yard touchdown pass.

North Allegheny, Pine-Richland chasing 1st-round byes along with conference title

North Allegheny coach Art Walker hasn’t studied playoff scenarios or counted tiebreaker points ahead of Friday’s regular-season finale at Pine-Richland.

5 things to watch in Week 9: Aliquippa, Central Valley battle for conference title

October 24, 2019

Only one team has defeated Aliquippa in the past two seasons combined: Central Valley in Week 9 last year.

Karen Arnold named athletic director for Pittsburgh City League

Karen Arnold was named athletic director for Pittsburgh Public Schools on Thursday, making her the first woman to hold that position.

WPIAL finds evidence ‘credible,’ but won’t punish Connellsville, Allderdice for slurs

October 22, 2019

The WPIAL found the evidence “credible,” but Connellsville and Allderdice won’t be punished for the racial and anti-gay slurs allegedly exchanged in a boys high school soccer match last month.

Clairton’s Wayne Wade III among 2 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL

The WPIAL denied an appeal from Clairton transfer Wayne Wade III on Monday, leaving the senior ineligible for the upcoming football playoffs.

WPIAL investigates slurs in 2-hour hearing with Allderdice, Connellsville; decision Tuesday

October 21, 2019

No vote yet, but WPIAL open to admitting Ligonier Valley

The WPIAL administration supports Ligonier Valley switching districts, if the school is released from PIAA District 6.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Robert Morris offer

October 20, 2019

Quaker Valley basketball standout Corinne Washington received a Robert Morris offer Saturday, making her the second WPIAL junior this month to add a Colonials scholarship.

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon announces first Division I football offer

Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon made one of his team’s biggest plays Friday night and then added his first Division I offer a day later.

Five things we learned in Week 8: Special moment for Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio

October 19, 2019

Around the WPIAL, Neshannock senior Jeremy Nativio’s 34-yard touchdown run became a feel-good internet sensation.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 8

WPIAL Football

Special teams shine as Peters Township defeats Bethel Park in 1st-place clash

Peters Township’s longest touchdown drive covered just 37 yards Friday night, rather short for one of the WPIAL’s top offenses.

Bethel Park, Peters Township to break 1st-place tie in unpredictable Allegheny 8

October 18, 2019

Nobody’s perfect in the Allegheny Eight, but that’s because the conference is the deepest in the WPIAL this season.

McGuffey installing two-toned gray turf at football stadium

October 17, 2019

McGuffey’s football field is going gray.

5 things to watch in Week 8 of the high school football season

For many teams, there’s still hope.

Upper St. Clair swimming star Josh Matheny commits to Indiana

October 16, 2019

The Indiana Hoosiers are probably known best for an iconic basketball program once coached by Bob Knight, but the school also has a swim team that celebrates championships.

2 top WPIAL juniors announce Michigan State football offers

Michigan State has recruited its share of WPIAL football players, a list that recently included Montae Nicholson of Gateway and Demetrious Cox of Jeannette.

Former Pine-Richland linebacker Tyler King commits to Stony Brook

October 14, 2019

Former Pine-Richland standout Tyler King, the leading tackler for two WPIAL titles and a state championship, announced Sunday his commitment to Stony Brook.

Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson becomes 9th WPIAL passer with 7,000 career yards

October 13, 2019

Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson topped 7,000 career passing yards on Friday night, becoming only the ninth quarterback in WPIAL history to reach the milestone.

Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White adds Robert Morris offer

Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny standout Kenny White, now a junior college sophomore, added his third Division I offer this week from Robert Morris.

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney adds Robert Morris offer

Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney has two hometown basketball offers now that Robert Morris has joined her scholarship list.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 7

October 12, 2019

WPIAL Football

5 takeaways from Week 7: Keystone Oaks QB tops 500 total yards in extraordinary effort

Keystone Oaks coach Greg Perry wasn’t too surprised, but quarterback Logan Shrubb didn’t seem tired when he arrived Saturday morning to lift weights.

WPIAL sets new hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address slur accusations

The WPIAL hearing for Connellsville and Allderdice to address accusations of racial and anti-gay slurs was rescheduled for Oct. 21.

No ‘doormat’: Moon tied for 1st after defeating Upper St. Clair

October 11, 2019

Doormats? Hardly.

Moon faces another top wideout in Allegheny 8 clash with Upper St. Clair

October 10, 2019

For the second week in a row, Moon faces a big-play offense with one of the WPIAL’s top wide receivers.

5 things to watch in Week 7 of the high school football season

One conference loss is manageable, but two might doom someone’s season in WPIAL Class A.

Scheduling conflict forces WPIAL to move football championship from Robert Morris

October 8, 2019

A scheduling conflict at Robert Morris has forced the WPIAL to move its Class 2A football championship to Norwin.

5 takeaways from Week 6: Southmoreland snaps cold spell

October 5, 2019

Southmoreland coach Dave Keefer saw no reason to hide the team’s 40-year playoff drought from his players.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 6

WPIAL Football

Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash

October 4, 2019

Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.

PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers

Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.

PIAA might ease co-op rules for small schools struggling to fill rosters

October 3, 2019

With many small districts struggling to fill rosters, the PIAA might make it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.

5 things to watch in Week 6 of the high school football season

Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak likes this week’s matchup but not necessarily the timing.

Central Valley, Thomas Jefferson rekindle rivalry from their Class AAA days

It wasn’t long ago that Thomas Jefferson and Central Valley were linked in a budding rivalry.

Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another Top 25 football offer

Derrick Davis’ long list of scholarship offers is starting to resemble the Top 25 polls.

PIAA cross county champion Patrick Anderson commits to North Carolina

Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson, the defending state cross country champion, committed to North Carolina.

Baseball coach Steve Bucci leaves South Park for alma mater Baldwin

October 2, 2019

Baseball coach Steve Bucci, who owns both WPIAL and state titles, is leaving South Park for Baldwin, his alma mater.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by PIAA

Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe was among three transfers left ineligible for the postseason after the PIAA upheld earlier WPIAL decisions Wednesday.

Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page adds Duquesne offer

September 30, 2019

Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page added a Duquesne basketball offer Monday, making her the third returning player from last year’s state championship lineup with Division I options.

PCN will re-air Darrelle Revis’ 5-touchdown performance in PIAA championship

Sixteen years later, high school football fans still marvel over Darrelle Revis’ performance in the 2003 state championship.

Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto commits to play Division I baseball

September 29, 2019

A day after quarterbacking Central Catholic’s football team to a win over then-No. 1 Pine-Richland, Dom Pieto announced his college commitment.

Gateway basketball standout Lexi Jackson commits to Kent State

All-section center Lexi Jackson, who averaged a double-double for Gateway’s girls basketball team, committed Saturday to Kent State.

5 takeaways from Week 5: WPIAL working overtime

September 28, 2019

Not many WPIAL football teams have worked overtime this season, but regulation wasn’t enough for three games Friday night.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 5

WPIAL Football

Dramatic win holds special meaning for Ringgold football, Rosensteel family

No. 3 Central Catholic leans on talented line, Eddy Tillman to defeat No. 1 Pine-Richland

September 27, 2019

A’meer Allen noticed a troubling trend in recent years.

Will Pine-Richland vs. Central Catholic predict WPIAL champion once again?

September 26, 2019

Central Catholic and Pine-Richland have a shared history that few recent rivalries can match.

5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football

Central Valley traveled 13 miles to play its first conference road game this season and only nine miles for its second, matchups with Beaver County rivals Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.

WPIAL postpones hearing for Allderdice, Connellsville boys soccer teams

September 23, 2019

A WPIAL hearing scheduled Wednesday for the Allderdice and Connellsville boys soccer teams has been postponed.

Shady Side Academy will forfeit football game against Apollo-Ridge

Citing a lack of healthy players, Shady Side Academy notified Apollo-Ridge on Monday that it will forfeit this week’s football game.

Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper commits to Robert Morris

September 22, 2019

Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper, a reigning WPIAL wrestling champion, committed Sunday to play football at Robert Morris.

5 takeaways from Week 4: Northern Conference continues to roil

September 21, 2019

Is there a WPIAL conference more volatile than the Northern?

WPIAL football rankings through Week 4

WPIAL Football

North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon

September 20, 2019

Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.

WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs

Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.

Mt. Lebanon isn’t ‘well-oiled machine,’ but will battle North Allegheny for 1st place

September 19, 2019

Bob Palko wants to build Mt. Lebanon into the “well-oiled machine” that his West Allegheny program was, but first, all of the parts have to be assembled correctly.

5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football

Clairton will try to do something that Mohawk, Rochester, Bishop Canevin and California couldn’t.

Injuries force Bishop Canevin to forfeit football game against OLSH

Citing a lack of healthy players, Bishop Canevin announced that it will forfeit this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.

WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules

September 17, 2019

The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.

Seton LaSalle football player among 2 ruled eligible after WPIAL hearings

The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Tyler Buzalka eligible for football season following a hearing Monday in Green Tree.

WPIAL calls in Connellsville, Allderdice after more racial slur allegations

September 16, 2019

The WPIAL is calling in Connellsville administrators for the second time in two years to face allegations that the school’s boys soccer team targeted an opponent with racial slurs.

North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson adds Robert Morris offer

September 15, 2019

A couple of weeks after adding a Michigan State basketball offer, North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson received one from a school much closer to home.

Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser adds 3rd Division I basketball offer

Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL girls basketball title last winter, received her third Division I offer this week.

Brian Eyerman, Alex Papson among North Allegheny hall of fame class

Football standouts Brian Eyerman and Alex Papson are among 11 former North Allegheny athletes who’ll be inducted next month into the school’s sports hall of fame.

5 takeaways from Week 3: Quarterback’s 485 yards among all-time WPIAL best

September 14, 2019

Gaudy statistics by WPIAL quarterbacks aren’t unusual anymore, but occasionally there’s a number that stands out among the rest.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 3

WPIAL Football

Drastic changes in enrollment factor into high school football participation decline

When McKeesport coach Matt Miller was a senior in 1991, the Tigers had around 85 names on the football roster. This year, his team has 47.

No. 4 Penn Hills forces 6 turnovers in 14-7 victory over Mars

September 13, 2019

The halftime adjustment for Penn Hills’ defensive line seemed almost counter-intuitive: Try not to rush into the backfield too quickly.

5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football: Sept. 13-14

September 12, 2019

If Avonworth quarterback Park Penrod throws a touchdown or scrambles for a first down, his name won’t echo through the stadium Friday night.

Spotting ‘fakes’ crucial as Penn Hills prepares for Mars’ misdirection

Mars coach Scott Heinauer took time during film study to praise a run by Nick Spotti that gained exactly zero yards.

Central Catholic lineman Thomas Hartnett commits to Dartmouth

September 11, 2019

The Ivy League added another WPIAL lineman Wednesday when Central Catholic’s Thomas Hartnett committed to Dartmouth.

Jeannette, Avella consider rescheduling football game but agree to play Friday night

September 10, 2019

Jeannette and Avella school administrators discussed moving this week’s football game to a different date or time, but ultimately agreed to play the game as scheduled.

5 takeaways from Week 2 of high school football action

September 7, 2019

Less than a week after being shot in the leg and feet, West Mifflin quarterback Jaylen Dukes walked back onto a football field with crutches Friday night.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 2

WPIAL football rankings

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle

September 6, 2019

South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.

Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty

The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.

New Castle wants to stop South Fayette’s 3-year undefeated run in Northwest 8

September 5, 2019

The name changed from the Northwest Nine to the Northwest Eight, but whatever the Class 4A conference was called, South Fayette has owned it.

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL

Avonworth transfer Kyros Thorpe can complete the regular season but the football standout remains ineligible for the playoffs.

WPIAL rules North Catholic soccer transfer Jayden Sharpless eligible

A WPIAL hearing panel overturned an earlier decision and ruled North Catholic soccer star Jayden Sharpless eligible Thursday by a narrow vote.

5 things to watch in Week 2 of high school football

In more than a century of WPIAL football, only three schools have reached 700 all-time victories: New Castle, Jeannette and Aliquippa.

Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe seeks postseason eligibility

September 2, 2019

Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe has made an immediate impact since transferring from Central Catholic, but it’s unknown whether he’ll be eligible for the football playoffs.

WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for soccer star Jayden Sharpless

North Catholic transfer Jayden Sharpless, the top WPIAL girls soccer player last season, will learn this week whether she can play this fall.

Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald reveals 8 favorite scholarship offers

September 1, 2019

Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald posted a favorites list this week that included all three area colleges and some of the top programs nationally.

North Allegheny freshman adds Michigan State basketball offer

Jasmine Timmerson won’t make her high school basketball debut for a few more months, but the North Allegheny freshman already has a Big 10 scholarship offer.

Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another SEC football offer

Gateway’s Derrick Davis might soon be able to choose any college in the country.

5 takeaways from Week 1 of high school football action

August 31, 2019

Carlynton accomplished something Friday the program hadn’t done in 14 years.

WPIAL football rankings through Week 1

Class 6A

Central Catholic scores last-minute touchdown, stops Seneca Valley in wild finish

August 30, 2019

Central Catholic scored with 28 seconds left and then its defense made a touchdown-saving tackle as time expired Friday night, a wild finish to a 10-7 victory at Seneca Valley.

Randy Rovesti retires as Gateway athletic director

Randy Rovesti thought he’d be Gateway’s interim athletic director for maybe two or three months, just long enough for the district to find someone else.

5 things to watch in Week 1 high school football

August 29, 2019

Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield would like to see old Aschman Stadium renovated, but the second-year coach started with the field house that holds the team’s lockers and weight room.

Division I linemen clash as No. 2 Central Catholic visits No. 4 Seneca Valley

Ron Butschle apologized for using what might sound to some like an old coaching cliché.

WPIAL football rankings through Week Zero

August 24, 2019

Class 6A

5 takeaways from Week Zero of high school football action

Two hundred yards is a good night for any WPIAL passer, but nowadays that’s not enough for some quarterbacks.

Pine-Richland uses fast start to defeat Penn Hills in clash of champions

August 23, 2019

Pine-Richland didn’t ease into this new football season.

McGuffey-Ambridge Week Zero football game postponed in 11th hour

Friday night’s football game between Ambridge and McGuffey was postponed because no game officials were hired to work the game, said McGuffey athletic director Ed Dalton.

WPIAL soccer star Jayden Sharpless ruled ineligible after transferring

Jayden Sharpless, one of the WPIAL’s top girls soccer players, was ruled ineligible to play this fall.

WPIAL rules 2 transfers eligible for football, delays decision on another

August 22, 2019

The WPIAL ruled Woodland Hills transfer E’Shawn Carter eligible Thursday, clearing the junior to play football and basketball this school year for the Wolverines.

5 things to watch in high school football for Week Zero

Scrimmage or schedule a game?

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches

The South Hills has some new faces this fall.

Aliquippa returns ‘good nucleus’ from WPIAL, PIAA championship lineup

If they all can accept their invitations, Aliquippa football greats Ty Law, Darrelle Revis, Sean Gilbert and Mike Ditka will return home for a Week 1 ceremony.

Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter among 3 WPIAL hearings scheduled for Thursday

Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter and two incoming freshmen at Aliquippa will have their football eligibility decided Thursday during hearing at the WPIAL office in Green Tree.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers

August 21, 2019

Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.

Even without LeDonne in attendance, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland excited for clash of champions

Jon LeDonne won’t take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or listen to some Smokey Robinson on his free Friday night.

WPIAL position by position breakdown: Scouting the safeties

August 20, 2019

Versatile safeties are crucial in today’s WPIAL.

Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson joining brother Cameron in Arizona

August 19, 2019

Moon basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson is joining older brother Cameron in Arizona.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks

There’s no major college recruit on this list like last year when Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, North Allegheny’s Joey Porter Jr. and Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy topped the cornerback rankings.

Coach Rod Steele makes West Mifflin roster battle for jobs in 1st season

A few days of heat acclimation and a week of camp wasn’t enough time for Rod Steele to pick starters.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers

August 18, 2019

The top linebackers in the WPIAL and City League always include some of the area’s best all-around athletes.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive linemen

August 17, 2019

Some years it’s at cornerback. Sometimes it’s the linebackers.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive linemen

August 16, 2019

The offensive line is always strong spot for the WPIAL, and it is among the deepest positions again this season.

Bethel Park might be going to no-huddle offense, but toughness remains

There won’t be a fullback in the backfield, the tight end is optional and running backs might play wide receiver, but Bethel Park’s offense isn’t completely new.

Upper St. Clair, Junko start with ‘blank slate’

Upper St. Clair returns only three players who started last season, a seemingly tough spot for a first-year coach.

WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends

August 15, 2019

The traditional hand-on-the-ground tight end has disappeared from some offenses around Western Pennsylvania.

Central Catholic turns the page after frustrating ’18 season

Last season was a difficult one for Central Catholic, hampered at times by turnovers and other self-inflicted mistakes.

Large, veteran offensive line to pave way for Mt. Lebanon

If there’s a difference between Class 5A and 6A football, maybe it’s the size of the linemen.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers

August 14, 2019

Western Pennsylvania was known historically for producing hall of fame quarterbacks, a trend that shifted in recent decades to superstar defensive backs.

WPIAL Class 6A football breakdown: Coaches expect competitive year, wide-open field

There was a worry the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs might be boring because every game is a rematch from the regular season.

Mars’ Khori Fusco headed to prep powerhouse for post-graduate season

Mars basketball standout Khori Fusco, who was a senior last season, announced Tuesday he’s headed to a powerhouse prep school near Shippensburg.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs

August 13, 2019

High school football has become a pass-oriented game, but that doesn’t mean teams across Western Pennsylvania have abandoned running the football.

Bob Palko brings ‘tough love’ to Mt. Lebanon as football teams open camp

August 12, 2019

Bob Palko compared the first day of football camp to planning a beach vacation, even though the only deep blue in sight Monday was Mt. Lebanon’s helmets and his new Blue Devils shorts.

Mars’ Carmody picked for All-American Bowl, 4th WPIAL player in 4 years

For the fourth year in a row, the WPIAL had a high school football player chosen for the All-American Bowl.

WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks

WPIAL passing records have fallen one after another over the past five years, a sign high school football in Western Pennsylvania has changed.

WPIAL rules Isiah Warfield eligible for senior season, ineligible for playoffs

August 7, 2019

The WPIAL approved Isiah Warfield to play basketball in the regular season, but the Central Valley transfer remains ineligible for the playoffs.

Former West Mifflin coach Lance Maha returns to WPIAL basketball

August 6, 2019

Lance Maha, who coached boys basketball at West Mifflin for two decades, is returning to the WPIAL after one season away.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher postpones commitment hours before decision day

August 4, 2019

On the eve of commitment day, Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher decided to postpone his decision.

WPIAL football recruits share their written scholarship offers as August arrives

August 1, 2019

The first day of August is the date each year that college football coaches can send written scholarship offers to high school seniors.

Like his older brother, Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa commits to Pitt baseball

July 31, 2019

Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa, whose brother stars for Pitt, committed Monday to also play baseball for the Panthers.

Gateway transfer Diego Bledsoe remains ineligible over father’s critical comments

July 30, 2019

The PIAA listened to critical public comments made by Diego Bledsoe’s father and then upheld a WPIAL decision that leaves the Gateway transfer ineligible to play football.

PIAA overturns suspension levied against Central Catholic coach Brian Urso

The PIAA overturned a WPIAL decision and lifted the suspension given to Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes West Mifflin football standout Nahki Johnson eligible

The recruiting allegations made against Nahki Johnson and coach Rod Steele were “unsubstantiated,” the PIAA decided Tuesday, so it ruled the West Mifflin football standout immediately eligible.

Clairton, McGuffey schedule Week 1 football game

July 29, 2019

Left idle by forfeits, McGuffey and Clairton will have Week 1 football games after all.

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher sets commitment date

July 28, 2019

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher hasn’t picked his college but the star linebacker did set a commitment date.

Alabama, rarely seen around WPIAL, offers Gateway junior Derrick Davis

Joe Namath starred there in the 1960s and Robert Foster picked Alabama earlier this decade, but Crimson Tide football offers don’t appear all that often in the WPIAL.

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski commits to Richmond

July 27, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, one of the WPIAL’s top rising seniors, committed Saturday to Richmond.

WPIAL will re-evaluate how it schedules football after Northgate forfeits

July 26, 2019

The WPIAL will change the way it schedules nonconference football games after a team strategically forfeited for the second time in two years.

Gateway’s Derrick Davis adds Louisville offer as Gators take team trip

July 25, 2019

The Gateway football team took a road trip this week to Louisville and linebacker Derrick Davis picked up a souvenir to bring home.

Peters Township wide receiver Josh Casilli commits to Penn

Peters Township’s Josh Casilli committed Thursday to Penn, choosing an Ivy League path that was wildly successful for another WPIAL wide receiver just a few years ago.

WPIAL’s best football players take break for TribLive HSSN event

July 23, 2019

High school football teams have worked out together for months in weight rooms and practice fields, but suddenly those offseason sessions have a more serious tone.

Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds 2 more Division I offers

Quaker Valley has another Washington with Division I basketball talent.

Armstrong coach Frank Fabian ready for season after short-lived resignation

In two weeks, when WPIAL football teams start heat acclimation, Armstrong coach Frank Fabian will be there for his fifth season with the River Hawks.

QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on

July 21, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski adds 2 more Division I offers

July 20, 2019

North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, now in the heart of AAU basketball season, added two more college offers.

PIAA sets pitch-count limit for junior high baseball

July 19, 2019

The PIAA believes junior high baseball players shouldn’t throw as many pitches as high school hurlers, so a separate pitch count was established this week.

As incoming freshmen, WPIAL basketball’s 2023 class already looks special

Early indications say the WPIAL Class of 2023 will be special.

PIAA denies request to add games to baseball regular season

The high school baseball regular season will continue to have a 20-game limit after the PIAA denied a request to add more contests.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys outdoor track season

July 18, 2019

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton became the most talked about track star in the WPIAL this spring, a situation neither he nor his father could have imagined.

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo commits to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham

July 17, 2019

A year after tearing an ACL, Trinity basketball standout Riley DeRubbo celebrated another milestone Wednesday when she committed to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham.

PIAA doesn’t support ‘diagonal’ pilot program for WPIAL soccer officials

WPIAL soccer referees must keep using the “double dual” officiating system, at least for now.

PIAA eligibility hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson postponed

The PIAA hearing scheduled Wednesday for Moon basketball standout Donovan Johnson was postponed.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls outdoor track season

July 16, 2019

Maybe the biggest story of track season came months earlier when the WPIAL decided to move the individual championship meet to Slippery Rock.

Thomas Jefferson QB Shane Stump adds 3rd Division I offer

Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, one of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks, announced his third college offer from Dayton.

North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch adds 4 more basketball offers

Four more names joined the list of Division I basketball teams recruiting North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch.

PIAA schedules eligibility hearing for West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson will learn this month whether he can play football in the fall.

WPIAL declares two-sport Belle Vernon transfer Devin Whitlock eligible

July 15, 2019

Belle Vernon sophomore Devin Whitlock, a two-sport standout who transferred from Monessen, is eligible to play football and basketball this upcoming school year.

WPIAL leading scorer Keandre Bowles commits to junior college in Kansas

July 14, 2019

The WPIAL’s leading scorer is headed to the Great Plains.

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen commits to St. Francis (Pa.)

Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen, a rising senior, announced her commitment to St. Francis (Pa.) basketball Sunday.

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal adds 4 more basketball offers

Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal added several more names to her scholarship list Sunday.

Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm adds WVU basketball offer

Chartiers Valley basketball standout Aislin Malcolm, one of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores, received an offer Sunday from West Virginia.

North Allegheny senior lineman Lugg forges his own path

North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg plays left tackle for the Tigers like older brother, Josh, did a few years earlier.

WPIAL soccer referees will switch to diagonal system, if PIAA approves

The WPIAL could change the way soccer games are officiated next season, if the PIAA approves.

PIAA baseball committee wants games added to regular season

July 13, 2019

Pennsylvania high school baseball teams could play a few more regular-season games next season, if the PIAA baseball steering committee gets its wish.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys basketball season

July 12, 2019

With Moon and Mars leading the way, it’s safe to say the 2018-19 WPIAL boys basketball season was out of this world.

PIAA schedules appeal hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson

Basketball star Donovan Johnson will learn next week whether he can play his senior season at Moon.

After 2 years without, light towers return to Northgate’s stadium

Northgate football coach Michael Fulmore was headed home after a summer workout when something high in the Bellevue sky grabbed his attention.

While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort

July 11, 2019

North Allegheny’s Luke Colella gives Ivy League another WPIAL football recruit

July 10, 2019

Once a Tiger, always a Tiger?

Central Catholic baseball’s Will Ray commits to Wake Forest

July 9, 2019

Central Catholic’s Will Ray is the lastest WPIAL baseball recruit heading south.

NFHS expands exchange zones for some track relays

July 8, 2019

Some sprinters will have an extra 10 meters to make their relay exchange, the National Federation of State High School Associations decided.

Woodland Hills AD among candidates to coach boys basketball team

July 7, 2019

Woodland Hills’ next boys basketball coach might already work in the school’s athletic department.

Week Zero football showcase at Wolvarena expands to 2nd venue

The Western Pennsylvania vs. Everyone Football Showcase is officially too big for one stadium.

2 WPIAL football recruits announce 1st Division I offers from St. Francis

Two rising seniors in the WPIAL each received their first Division I football offers this week from St. Francis.

Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’

July 6, 2019

Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam commits to West Virginia

July 5, 2019

Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL title this spring, committed Friday to West Virginia.

Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 football season

July 1, 2019

Fifteen years had passed since Darrelle Revis last played WPIAL football, but his name came up often last December in Hershey.

Former North Allegheny track star Ayden Owens transferring to Michigan

Ayden Owens enjoyed his freshman year on the West Coast, the warm weather and the Los Angeles lifestyle.

Incoming North Allegheny freshman announces Division 1 basketball offer

June 30, 2019

North Allegheny’s Jasmine Timmerson hasn’t started high school but already has a Division 1 basketball offer.

Trinity basketball’s Riley DeRubbo adds St. Francis offer

Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo, who missed most of her junior basketball season after knee surgery, has added another Division 1 offer.

Pennsylvania has nation’s No. 1-ranked small school football team

Defending PIAA champion Southern Columbia was ranked Sunday as the No. 1 small school football team in the country by the website High School Football America.

2 WPIAL schools honored nationally in preseason football rankings

WPIAL football teams Penn Hills and Pine-Richland were recognized by High School Football American in its national preseason rankings.

Aliquippa’s Devonshire named Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year

MJ Devonshire might be too humble to rank himself among the high school greats from Aliquippa, but his accomplishments speak for themselves.

Looking back at the top 15 high school sports stories of the 2018-19 school year

June 29, 2019

8.6.18

Mars basketball’s Bella Pelaia commits to Mount St. Mary’s

June 28, 2019

For the third time in three years, the Mars girls basketball team has a Division 1 recruit.

Ex-Blackhawk baseball star Brendan McKay making major league debut

As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations

June 27, 2019

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year

North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.

North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football

June 26, 2019

The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.

Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda commits to Ivy League champion

Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda, who counted all eight Ivy League schools among his offers, committed Tuesday to Princeton.

Peters Township’s Joe Maize resigns as baseball coach after 35 years

June 25, 2019

A sign in Joe Maize’s game room reminds visitors that “Baseball Lives Here,” an item he picked up while visiting Cooperstown, N.Y.

2 WPIAL basketball recruits named in updated ESPN rankings for 2020

June 24, 2019

Two WPIAL basketball recruits received spots close together in updated ESPN 100 rankings for the 2020 class.

Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification

The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.

Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings commits to Virginia over ACC rivals

June 23, 2019

Virginia was the first Power 5 program to offer Woodland Hills’ Josh Rawlings a football scholarship in December.

Serra Catholic’s Mark Black named Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year

The Youghiogheny runs beyond the outfield fence at Boston Field in McKeesport, the home for Serra Catholic baseball.

WPIAL’s youth movement shows in 2019 Trib HSSN baseball all-stars

WPIAL baseball has witnessed an influx of talented freshmen in recent years and their arrival is reflected in the Trib 10.

West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL

June 20, 2019

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.

WPIAL awards playoff eligibility to Kiski, Gateway football transfers

The WPIAL ruled Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake and Gateway’s Shane Thrift fully eligible to play football this fall following separate hearings Thursday at the league office in Green Tree.

WPIAL declares Belle Vernon multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock ineligible

June 18, 2019

Multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock, who transferred from Monessen to Belle Vernon after his freshman year, was ruled ineligible by the WPIAL.

North Catholic’s Tess Myers follows family tradition, commits to Duquesne

June 17, 2019

Four decades after her father committed to Duquesne, North Catholic’s Tess Myers committed Monday to play basketball for the Dukes.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson remains ineligible after WPIAL denies waiver request

The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.

Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame

June 16, 2019

Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.

How public-private legislation would alter Pa. high school sports landscape

June 15, 2019

Seneca Valley lineman Josh Kaltenberger commits to Purdue

Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger received his first Power 5 offer Tuesday from Purdue.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson among 5 scheduled for WPIAL hearings Thursday

Football standout Nahki Johnson, who transferred from Steel Valley to West Mifflin in December, will have his eligibility decided Thursday in a hearing at the WPIAL office.

Devon Prep avoids Serra star Mark Black in 7th, dashes Eagles’ PIAA title hopes

June 14, 2019

UNIVERSITY PARK — Devon Prep challenged Serra Catholic star Mark Black three times Friday, but with two outs in the seventh and first base open, there was no reason to take that chance again.

‘Nightmarish’ inning costs Beaver in PIAA championship loss to Selinsgrove

UNIVERSITY PARK — This season was mostly a dream come true until the fifth inning Friday, which felt quite the opposite.

West Perry’s walk-off win dashes Elizabeth Forward’s state title hopes

June 13, 2019

UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 41 years as a softball coach, Elizabeth Forward’s Harry Rutherford had never seen a play quite like this.

Scott Dibble resigns as Canevin basketball coach, heads to NBA Finals, U.S. Open

Scott Dibble resigned as Bishop Canevin’s girls basketball coach but that didn’t leave his calendar wide open.

Frazier softball’s state championship game moved to Friday as PIAA revamps schedule

UNIVERSITY PARK — The PIAA rearranged its softball and baseball championships schedule Thursday and postponed two games to Friday after rain soaked Penn State’s campus.

WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield transferring from Sewickley Academy

June 12, 2019

WPIAL basketball standout Isiah Warfield, a 25-point scorer last season at Sewickley Academy, has transferred home to Central Valley for his senior year.

Legislation to split public, private school sports ‘poorly crafted,’ PIAA exec says

June 11, 2019

High school sports proposal would separate public, private playoffs, ax PIAA transfer restrictions

Western Pa. representative readies legislation to separate private, public school playoffs

June 10, 2019

The executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference sat down with outspoken public school advocates in February for a frank conversation about the current PIAA playoff system.

PIAA postpones all baseball, softball semifinals involving WPIAL teams

The PIAA postponed many of Monday’s baseball and softball semifinals because of weather to Tuesday, including all involving WPIAL teams.

Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty commits to North Carolina

June 9, 2019

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty, who announced more Division 1 offers than any WPIAL football recruit in the 2020 class, cut his long list down to one.

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds 5th ACC scholarship offer

Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher added his fifth ACC offer this week.

Union lineman Aaron Gunn announces Michigan State offer

Union’s Aaron Gunn, a rising junior who’s recruiting stock is also on the rise, announced an offer from Michigan State.

Baseball semifinal sites, times: WPIAL Class 2A finalists rematch at West Mifflin

June 7, 2019

Twelve days after Seton LaSalle defeated Serra Catholic in the WPIAL championship, the section rivals will rematch in the state semifinals.

Softball semifinal sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams 1 victory away from PIAA finals

Hempfield is one win away from its fourth consecutive appearance in the state softball championships.

North Allegheny capitalizes on errors to defeat rival Pine-Richland

June 6, 2019

Twelve errors in three games will eventually catch up to any baseball team, even a talented WPIAL champion.

Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson announces 1st Division 1 offer

Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson, who earned all-conference recognition last season as a sophomore, announced his first Division 1 offer Wednesday from Akron.

PIAA postpones 3 softball playoff games, moves Class 6A baseball quarterfinal

The PIAA postponed three softball games scheduled Thursday at Slippery Rock University and moved the North Allegheny vs. Pine-Richland baseball game to a different site.

WPIAL suspends McKeesport basketball assistant 1 year for recruiting

June 5, 2019

WPIAL delays eligibility decision on Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson

Donovan Johnson’s senior season remains in limbo.

Central Catholic basketball coach avoids 1-year suspension, must sit 2 games

Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso avoided a one-year ban for recruiting, but the WPIAL still wants him suspended for a scrimmage and two regular-season games next season.

Softball sites, times: 11 WPIAL teams reach PIAA quarterfinals

June 4, 2019

WPIAL softball champions Laurel, West Greene and Elizabeth Forward will take part in a PIAA playoff tripleheader Thursday at Slippery Rock University.

Baseball sites, times: North Allegheny, Pine-Richland rematch in quarterfinals

Section rivals Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will rematch Thursday in a PIAA Class 6A baseball quarterfinal at LaRoche College.

Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title

With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.

4 days after winning WPIAL baseball title, Shaler’s emotional postseason run ends

June 3, 2019

When Shaler’s championship season ended abruptly Monday, baseball coach Brian Junker gathered his players in right field and simply told them “thank you.”

Valparaiso recruits WPIAL with help from former Western Pa. standout

June 2, 2019

Football coaches at Notre Dame and Ball State have found success recruiting the WPIAL, but now another Indiana school has joined the picture.

Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee enjoy ‘special’ night at WPIAL Hall of Fame induction

June 1, 2019

Paul Posluszny and Sean Lee were teammates at Penn State, groomsmen in each other’s weddings and close friends throughout their NFL days.

Plenty of reasons to celebrate for NFBD All-Star players

If Hollis Mathis scores an all-star game touchdown Sunday, he might have to call somebody immediately.

Softball sites, times: 4 WPIAL teams headed to Penn State’s Beard Field for PIAA openers

Four WPIAL softball teams will take an early look at the state championship site.

Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins among 9 WPIAL girls named PTFCA all-state

May 31, 2019

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads WPIAL boys on PTFCA all-state team

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne, the WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA champion in the 3,200 meters, was named a first-team all-state selection by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.

Baseball sites, times: PIAA schedules tripleheaders at Latrobe, Butler

Pullman Park in Butler and Latrobe high school will host tripleheaders Monday in the first round of the state baseball playoffs.

Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title

May 30, 2019

With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.

Beaver rolls past section rival Blackhawk for 4th WPIAL baseball title

May 29, 2019

Six runs was the unofficial goal, but Beaver reached that by the fourth inning and the number just kept going higher.

WPIAL changes start time for Class 3A softball final between Avonworth, Keystone Oaks

With rain in the forecast, the WPIAL moved up the start time for the Class 3A softball final Wednesday at Peterswood Park.

WPIAL Class 4A baseball final preview: Blackhawk vs. Beaver

WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship

Steel Valley captures 2nd WPIAL baseball title with comeback victory over Hopewell

May 28, 2019

Steel Valley has a knack for championship comebacks.

Aliquippa’s Devonshire among top names playing in Big 33 Classic

May 26, 2019

Track season ended Saturday for Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, who won state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the PIAA championship.

Final results from 2019 PIAA track and field championships

Track and field

PIAA recap: WPIAL athletes win 11 events at state track championships

The weekend started slowly but WPIAL athletes rallied on Saturday and won 11 events at the PIAA track and field championships in Shippensburg.

Burrell 400 relay breaks school record, wins PIAA gold

May 25, 2019

SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell sprinter Jocelyn Vickers ran her opening leg of the 400-meter relay and then hurried toward the finish line to wait for her team’s baton to arrive.

Avonworth/Northgate’s Hayden Robinson finds ‘relief’ in 100-meter victory at PIAAs

SHIPPENSBURG — There, of course, was happiness and excitement as Hayden Robinson crossed the finish line first at Seth Grove Stadium.

Aliquippa sprinter M.J. Devonshire wins gold in 100, 200 at PIAA championship

SHIPPENSBURG — Aliquippa has a storied history of all-time great all-around athletes who wore the Quips’ red and black.

North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads 5 WPIAL runners on 3,200 medal podium at PIAAs

SHIPPENSBURG — North Allegheny’s Zachary Kinne was running at Seth Grove Stadium, otherwise the state championship sure felt a lot like the WPIAL meet.

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo defends 3,200 title in record time at PIAA Class AA championship

Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo heard a voice from above helping her set a meet record Saturday at the PIAA track and field championships.

No WPIAL athletes win PIAA titles on Day 1, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek comes very close

May 24, 2019

SHIPPENSBURG — Beaver sophomore Emma Pavelek leaped plenty high enough to win a state title, matching her top rival jump for jump at Seth Grove Stadium.

Burrell’s Sharrow redeems herself in 300 hurdles, advances to PIAA finals

SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stumbled to the finish line last year at Seth Grove Stadium and then waited nervously, hoping to hear her named called for the 300-meter finals.

WPIAL controversy settled, Waynesburg hurdler has ‘something to prove to myself’ at PIAAs

This week was calmer than last for WPIAL champion hurdler and pole vaulter Daniel Layton, but it wasn’t without incident.

WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold

May 23, 2019

Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green commits to Michigan

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green committed Thursday to Michigan.

Mars celebrates 11th-inning victory over top-seeded West Allegheny in 5A playoffs

May 22, 2019

Four hours after first pitch, long after the sun had set, Mars players and fans joined together on Burkett Field to celebrate their 11-inning victory in the WPIAL baseball playoffs.

Bach sharp as Yough takes down South Park in Class 4A quarterfinals

May 20, 2019

Jarett Bach’s first-round start didn’t meet his high standards, but Monday’s was surely one of his best.

Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue receives 1st Division 1 basketball offer

May 19, 2019

Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue, the team’s leading scorer two years in a row, announced her first Division 1 basketball offer Sunday from Marshall.

Western Pa.-connected Colorado State offers WPIAL offensive linemen

Western Pennsylvania football fans probably know Colorado State as the alma mater of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter.

University Prep’s Michael Snowden lists first FBS football offer

College recruiters are chasing after Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes, but he’s not the only Division 1 football prospect in the City League.

Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White announces Akron offer

Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny football standout Kenny White, now a junior college freshman, announced a scholarship offer from Akron.

Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green includes Pitt among Top 5 schools

May 18, 2019

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty narrows lengthy offers list to 7 favorites

May 17, 2019

Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty, who leads WPIAL football recruits with more than 40 combined FBS and FCS offers, narrowed his lengthy list Friday.

Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley earns bragging rights by winning 3 WPIAL gold medals

Brendan O’Malley’s twin brother Bailey won WPIAL gold last season and defended his shot put title again Thursday.

South Park’s Maura Huwalt leads multiple winners at WPIAL championships with 3 gold medals

May 16, 2019

As a six-time WPIAL champion, South Park’s Maura Huwalt now ranks among the most accomplished throwers in WPIAL history.

Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire wins 3 golds, replaces Quips great in record book

Breaking a WPIAL record made M.J. Devonshire smile, but what he liked most was that he’d supplanted a fellow Quips great.

Citing ‘something to prove,’ Waynesburg’s Layton defends WPIAL hurdles title

Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton tried not to think about his stressful week when standing at the starting line.

PIAA overturns WPIAL, Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton can defend hurdles title

May 15, 2019

A clerical error will not prevent Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton from defending his WPIAL title in the 110-meter hurdles, the PIAA decided Wednesday.

Moon basketball’s Donovan Johnson receives North Carolina scholarship offer

May 14, 2019

Hours after earning all-state player of the year honors, Moon’s Donovan Johnson received a scholarship offer from North Carolina.

Moon’s Donovan Johnson leads all-state basketball selections as Pa. Player of the Year in Class 5A

Moon’s Donovan Johnson was named as the state’s Class 5A boys basketball player of the year Tuesday and Adam Kaufman was named coach of the year after leading the Tigers to a PIAA title in March.

WPIAL wants to hear from 2 basketball coaches facing recruiting allegations

May 13, 2019

The WPIAL board voted Monday to schedule hearings for two basketball programs facing recruiting allegations.

Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton turns to PIAA after WPIAL denies his request

Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton won’t be able to defend his WPIAL hurdles title unless the PIAA intervenes.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson receives 2nd football offer from Big 12 school

West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson announced his second Big 12 football offer this week.

Blackhawk safety Marques Watson-Trent announces first FBS offer

May 12, 2019

Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent, an all-conference safety and running back, received his first FBS offer this week.

USA Today releases “Way-Too-Early” high school football rankings

Football season is still months away, but USA Today released its “Way-Too-Early” high school rankings this week.

Union lineman Aaron Gunn adds 2nd Power 5 offer

One of the WPIAL’s smallest schools features one of the WPIAL’s biggest sophomores.

Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL baseball playoffs

May 10, 2019

Class 6A

Upper St. Clair, Oakland Catholic seeded No. 1 for WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs

Oakland Catholic and Upper St. Clair earned the No. 1 seeds in the WPIAL girls lacrosse brackets revealed Friday.

Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL baseball playoff brackets

Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny, Greensburg Salem, Freeport, Shenango and California received No. 1 seeds Friday when the WPIAL revealed baseball playoff brackets.

Butler’s Ethan Morton latest WPIAL basketball recruit headed out of state

May 9, 2019

The WPIAL doesn’t produce an abundance of major-college men’s basketball recruits, but it has seen its share of three- and four-star prospects in recent years.

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton commits to Purdue

Rarely does the WPIAL have a basketball star whose recruitment stretches nearly coast to coast.

North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford earn No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs

North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Mt. Pleasant, Avonworth, Chartiers-Houston and West Greene received No. 1 seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed softball playoff brackets.

North Allegheny, Mars receive top seeds in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs

North Allegheny and Mars received the top seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed brackets for the boys lacrosse playoffs.

Bishop Canevin hires football coach T.J. Wiley

May 8, 2019

Former Northgate, Deer Lakes and Penn-Trafford football coach T.J. Wiley is headed to Bishop Canevin.

3rd WPIAL baseball team forfeits after violating pitch-count rule

May 7, 2019

Two weeks after defeating section-leading Hopewell, Beaver Falls gave the victory back.

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton will make his college decision this week

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton holds nearly two dozen scholarship offers, having added one after another since Cleveland State gave him his first three summers ago.

North Catholic basketball teammates add offers just before recruiting shutdown

May 6, 2019

A week-long recruiting shutdown starts Monday for NCAA women’s basketball coaches, but North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski each pulled in an offer just before the deadline.

Texas A&M targets linemen from WPIAL, City League

May 5, 2019

With NFL first-round picks Myles Garrett, Mike Evans and Von Miller all recent Aggies, Texas A&M football coaches can make a strong nationwide pitch to recruits.

Public school advocates plan another ‘athletic equity’ summit

Public school advocates are planning another statewide summit this summer to further their campaign to create separate PIAA playoffs.

Notre Dame offers another Carmody — this time for football

Could Notre Dame recruit two Carmody brothers?

East-West game gives 16 WPIAL football players 1 last go-round

May 4, 2019

May isn’t typical football season in Western Pennsylvania, but it is for 68 seniors from across the state who will gather Sunday in Altoona.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of May 5, 2019

Here are this week’s Trib HSSN baseball rankings:

Pitch-count confusion forces another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit

May 1, 2019

The PIAA’s new pitch-count rule forced another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit.

Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty adds 40th offer, sets date to announce favorites

A.J. Beatty’s scholarship total has climbed for weeks, but the Central Catholic junior will start narrowing his options soon.

Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald adds West Virginia, Syracuse offers

April 28, 2019

Elliot Donald’s uncle ranks among Pitt’s all-time greats, but that didn’t stop West Virginia from recruiting him.

Nebraska football makes recruiting push into Western Pennsylvania

Nebraska’s football roster lists 75 players from the Cornhusker State and a number of others from the midwest, but coach Scott Frost’s staff is making a push in Pennsylvania.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 28, 2019

April 27, 2019

Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings:

Latrobe’s Williams leaves home track as big winner at WCCA meet

Latrobe sprinter Zakharee Williams always has considered himself a strong finisher.

Winning 300 hurdles at WCCA meet a breeze for Burrell’s Sharrow

As Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stood at the starting line, the hurdlers in the other lanes weren’t what concerned her most.

PBC Roundball welcomes several elite players for pair of games Saturday

April 26, 2019

The public address announcer gave Moses Malone a Roundball Classic introduction of Biblical proportions.

West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces Pitt, West Virginia offers hours apart

April 24, 2019

West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson could watch the recruiting version of the Backyard Brawl.

Central Catholic hires college assistant as boys basketball coach

Central Catholic dipped into the college ranks Wednesday and hired Brian Urso as boys basketball coach.

100 or 105? Confusion over pitch-count rule forces WPIAL baseball team to forfeit

When the PIAA increased the baseball pitch count from 100 to 105 last summer, that change affected only the playoffs.

Senior season in question for Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson

April 23, 2019

Moon junior Donovan Johnson won a state basketball title this winter as one of the best players in the WPIAL, but his eligibility for next season is in question.

Woodland Hills TE Josh Rawlings names Pitt among his ‘Elite 8’

April 21, 2019

Woodland Hills junior Josh Rawlings, a football recruit with more than two dozen offers, announced Sunday a Top 8 list of favorites that included Pitt.

Butler’s Ethan Morton draws recognition from USA Today, MaxPreps

Butler basketball star Ethan Morton was named to USA Today’s All-Pennsylvania team — one of two honors the junior received this week.

WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 21, 2019

April 20, 2019

Baseball rankings

In issue of separating public, private schools, PIAA wants time

April 19, 2019

The PIAA administration is watching closely as a state legislator wades into the public vs. private debate, but it would rather see its own competitive-balance efforts given time to work.

Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes adds Penn State offer, drawing recruiters to City League

Westinghouse junior Dayon Hayes is becoming the hottest City League football recruit in years.

Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson runs state’s fastest 800 meters at Butler Invitational

Greensburg Salem senior Malia Anderson ran the fastest time in the state this season to win the girls 800 meters Thursday at the Butler Invitational.

Seneca Valley AD Heather Lewis joining WPIAL board of directors

April 18, 2019

Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis is the only newcomer voted onto the WPIAL board of directors this year in election results revealed Wednesday.

Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher gains popularity with ACC, Big 10 football coaches

Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher is popular with ACC and Big 10 football coaches.

WPIAL requests eligibility hearing for West Mifflin transfer Nahki Johnson

The WPIAL board voted Wednesday to hold an eligibility hearing for West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson.